Verdict in Varlamov's case to be delivered in May

The court is about to finish hearing evidence of witnesses and victims in the case of a Belarusian fashion designer.  A verdict is expected to be announced in May.

Interfax West news agency has learnt it Varlamov's lawyer Pavel Pivavarchyk.

“About 80% of witnesses and victims gave their evidence. Some witnesses and victims – about 100 people – failed to appear in court. The court doesn't know why,” the lawyer said.

“The court will examine the materials of the case after the hearing of witnesses and victims is completed. The examination may take three or four weeks. The court will then hear oral arguments of the parties. A ruling may be delivered in May, but the exact date has not been set yet,” Pivavarchyk said.

He added that Varlamov is preparing for a new MRI examination in the Interior Ministry's hospital.

“He has problems with spine. He feels bad and suffers from back pain,” the lawyer said.

According to him, the court denied a motion to change the pretrial restrictions for Varlamov due to health problems. Pivavarchyk noted it was not the first time when the defence had asked to release Varlamov, but the judge continued to deny motions referring to the degree of charges.