TALLINN, Estonia (AP) 鈥� Nearly 100 political prisoners in , have severe medical problems and could be close to death, the said Monday.
Viasna, whose is among those imprisoned in the crackdown, identified 93 prisoners of particular concern who are suffering from cancer, heart disease and other conditions that are being neglected or poorly treated behind bars.
鈥淚n captivity, every disease progresses faster, in addition to the lack of qualified medical care," said Viasna representative Pavel Sapelka. "This is influenced by the conditions of detention 鈥� lack of fresh air, poor nutrition, constant psychological pressure and stress.鈥�
Belarus started a harsh crackdown on opposition after large protests arose across the country following August 2020 elections who disputed results gave authoritarian a sixth term in office.
Human rights activists count some 35,000 people detained in the crackdown, many of whom were beaten by police. All significant opposition figures have been imprisoned or have fled the country.
Viasna says more than 1,400 political prisoners are now behind bars.
Among the cases cited by Viasna in the report is that of of the post-election protests. She underwent abdominal surgery but was quickly transported back to prison. Viasna said her dietary needs are not being observed and said investigation found that she was beaten prior to being hospitalized.
Other cases the group noted included 19-year-old Mikita Zalatarou, who reportedly is being denied pills to control his epilepsy, and Yauhen Barouski, who told his family while ill that 鈥淚'm probably just going to die here.鈥�
The Associated Press
