Crimean Tatar human rights activist Izetov held in harsh conditions in Russia's Yakutsk penal colony
Riza Izetov, a Crimean Tatar human rights activist sentenced by a Russian court to 19 years in prison, has reported harsh detention conditions in the Yakutsk penal colony, where he has experienced repeated disciplinary sanctions.
Source: Crimean Solidarity, a Ukrainian non-governmental organisation
Details: Izetov told Crimean Solidarity about the poor conditions in Yakutsk Penal Colony No. 1, stating that he is "constantly" subjected to disciplinary measures and placed in solitary confinement, including for uniform violations and for falling asleep during the day due to a hypertension attack.
"Having seen me on camera, [the warders] organised a commission and punished me. I'd like to leave this place as soon as possible," Crimean Solidarity quoted Izetov as saying.
He also reported that prison staff exert psychological and moral pressure on him.
Izetov noted that three Crimean Tatars are being held in the institution where he is imprisoned. About 15 people are serving sentences for terrorism-related offences, all of whom are either in solitary confinement or in transit and transfer cells.
Crimean Solidarity reported that Izetov is expected to be transferred to a high-security prison, likely in Russia's Far East, in Krasnoyarsk Krai, either in Minusinsk or Yenisei.
The human rights defender also stated that he has no right to receive calls and expressed doubts about the possibility of meeting with his family. Despite having the right to long visits, the administration may deny these meetings due to his disciplinary sanctions.
Izetov also mentioned that the cell had terrible lighting. It used to be cold, but now the heating has been turned on. The prisoners are forced to drink water directly from the tap.
A court sentenced Riza to 19 years in prison, of which the first 5 years he must serve in a high-security prison and the rest in a strict regime colony.
Izetov was accused of organising the activities of the Islamic political party Hizb ut-Tahrir, which is banned in Russia but operates legally in Ukraine and other countries.
Background: In March 2022, the Southern District Military Court in Rostov-on-Don sentenced five Crimean Solidarity activists detained in connection with the "second Simferopol group" of Hizb ut-Tahrir to prison terms ranging from 15 to 19 years.
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