Swedish embassy in Minsk reports threats to Swedes in Belarus
MINSK. Aug 14 (Interfax) - The Swedish embassy in Belarus has reported security threats to Swedes in Belarus.
"The Swedish embassy has received a threat aimed at Swedes in general in Belarus," the embassy wrote on its Web page. The embassy advises all Swedes who are now in Belarus to avoid visual identification, such as Swedish elements of clothing.
Pointing out that Belarus is as a rule a safe place, the embassy said that "due to recent events, including the expulsion of Sweden's ambassador from Belarus, there is reason for Swedes to be particularly vigilant and exercise caution when traveling to and staying in the country."
According to earlier reports, the Belarusian authorities have demanded that the Swedish diplomatic contingent leave Minsk by August 30.
On August 8, the Belarusian Foreign Ministry announced its decision to recall its diplomatic mission from Stockholm and demanded that Sweden remove its diplomats from Minsk by August 30. Belarus also accused former Swedish ambassador to Belarus Stefan Ericsson of destructive activities and supporting the opposition.
The scandal began after a Swedish-piloted plane invaded Belarusian airspace and dropped hundreds of teddy bears bearing calls in support of freedom of speech over Minsk. The incident led to the dismissal of the heads of the Belarusian air defense service and Border Guard Committee. The Belarusian State Security Committee invited three Swedish citizens for questioning. A photographer who posted photos of the teddy bears on the Internet and the Minsk resident who is believed to have intended to rent an apartment to Swedish citizens remain in police custody.
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said on August 9 the Swish embassy could be connected with the organizers of the dropping of the teddy bears over Minsk.
