11 June 2019, 08:30
Petition in support of Circassian activist Kochesoko gathers 2000 signatures
An advocate could meet Martin Kochesoko, a detained activist of the NGO named "Khabze", in the detention centre, said Azamat Shormanov, and NGO activist. Within the last 24 hours, the petition demanding to Martin Kochesoko was signed by over 2000 people.
The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that Martin Kochesoko, the head of the "Khabze", was detained in Nalchik on June 7. During inspection of his car, law enforcers found a package of drugs. On June 9, activists held an action in his support in Makhachkala.
In May, Mr Kochesoko reported that his parents had been visited by a local official, who advised that the activist "should slow down his activeness."
Also on June 8, a search was conducted in the office of the "Khabze" and in homes of a number of activists, including Shormanov.
The petition "Freedom to Martin Kochesoko!" is present on the website "Change.org" since June 9. Tina Lakhova, the author of the petition, has noted that shortly before his arrest, Martin was subjected to authorities' pressure; and defamatory publications about him appeared on the Internet.
Martin Kochesoko is the founder of the NGO "Khabze" and a co-chairman of the Democratic Congress of Russian Nations.
"Martin is a decent citizen. All his friends know that he is an adherent of healthy lifestyle; he doesn't smoke and drink alcohol, not to mention any drugs," Murat Makhosh wrote under the petition.
"I don't believe that Kochesoko uses or distributes drugs," Ibragim Gukemukh wrote.
This article was originally published on the Russian page of 24/7 Internet agency ‘Caucasian Knot’ on June 10, 2019 at 09:31 pm MSK. To access the full text of the article, click here.
Author: Asya Kapaeva Source: CK correspondent
