Security forces have started visiting activists ahead of the elections. How can you protect yourself?

Security forces have started visiting activists ahead of the elections. How can you protect yourself?

On the eve of the elections, police officers have started going to activists’ homes and handing them warnings. The telegram channel "ZPCh" reports this, citing activist Anatoly Roshchin. Here is what he says:

“Usually, when asked: ‘How are things?’ I answer: ‘No new cases, waiting.’ Well, it seems I’ve waited. Today, an hour ago, the intercom rang: ‘Police.’ Then the apartment doorbell. Two young nice-looking guys are standing there, showing ID. I ask: ‘What do you need me for?’ They answer: ‘We want to question you in order to present a warning.’ I ask: ‘Do you have a warrant?’ They answer: ‘We have no grounds to detain you.’ So then I offer this option: ‘You send me a summons, and I’ll come at your demand.’ There was some back-and-forth, but we settled on a summons, under which I am obliged to come.”

Unfortunately, this is a common practice on the eve of socially significant events. In the cards, we explain what a warning is and how to behave if they want to hand such a document to you.

⭕️ If you or your loved ones need advice on how to communicate with security forces, write to us on Telegram at @OvdInfoBot or email us at info@ovdinfo.org. And take care of yourselves!

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