Independence Square cordoned off by police

An increased presence of police and security services can be noticed around Independence Square in Minsk.

Nasha Niva learnt it from its readers.

Representatives of Belarusian freight companies planned to gather in front of the House of Government on February 4 to defend their rights.

Siarhei Shtoda, a company director and initiator of protests, was detained on February 3 and sentenced to 15 days in custody allegedly for swearing.

The police control exits from the metro. Two buses with members of the special task force can be seen near the House of Government. A car of a security agency stands near the Belarusian State University.

There are no protesters in the square.