Moscow police detain several people ahead of Pussy Riot verdict
MOSCOW. Aug 17 (Interfax) - Several people have been detained outside Moscow's Khamovnichesky Court, which is expected to hand down its verdict in the case of all-female punk group Pussy Riot performers on Friday.
One of the young people detained by police was wearing a green knitted balaclava similar to those worn by the group's members during their action at the Cathedral of the Christ the Savior.
Several hundred journalists and a small group of Pussy Riot supporters have already gathered near the court building. Most of the group's supporters are dressed in T-shorts with slogans in support of the girls.
Police are asking the people to stop blocking the road.
The Liberal Democratic Party is holding a picket in support of the Russian Orthodox Church nearby.
Several dozen young people dressed in clothes decorated with Orthodox and nationalistic symbols have gathered near the Kievskaya subway station.