Documented cases

3 people held for political reasons in Russia, Belarus, Georgia and Central Asia. Search by name, or filter by country, charge, arrest date and sentence.

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Urgency

Nurakhan Makhatov

Makhatov, 64, was convicted for organizing mass riots in Taraz during the protests. He denies guilt, stating he went to calm the youth, and was accused based on testimony from a criminal mastermind.

LAST UPDATED · NOV 5, 2026

Aibol Sagintay

Sagintay was convicted for participation in mass riots in Taraz. He admits attending protests but denies breaking the law, claiming he urged calm. He refused an offer of release in exchange for incriminating others.

LAST UPDATED · NOV 5, 2026

Yerbol ZHUMANOV

Zhumanov was accused of shooting and killing an NSC officer during protests in Taraz. He admitted picking up a weapon but denied killing anyone, and CCTV footage suggests the officer was already dead when Zhumanov arrived.

LAST UPDATED · NOV 5, 2026

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Letter-writing guides: Russia · Belarus

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