28 Feb 2022 11:28

About 800 detained for breaching public peace on referendum day in Belarus - Interior Ministry

MINSK. Feb 28 (Interfax) - The referendum in Belarus passed without disturbance, all possible provocations were prevented, and about 800 people were detained, the Belarusian Interior Ministry's press service said in a statement.

"About 800 people have been detained across the country for breaching the public peace. Their actions are being studied and will be given a legal evaluation. Some of the detainees were held responsible for similar crimes before," the statement said.

The Interior Ministry did everything necessary to maintain order in the country and to ensure public security during the Belarusian referendum on constitutional amendments.

"There were no mass protests despite the numerous calls for destabilization made from outside the country on destructive Telegram channels. The police were tasked with rapid response and prevention of provocations," it said.

A criminal case has been opened over calls for flagrant breaches of the public peace and unsanctioned mass events. The perpetrators have been identified and detained.

Materials regarding illegal honking have been prepared, and such drivers are being identified. The ministry noted that illegal honking entails a fine and the revocation of the driver's license.