Additional Name(s): Aleksander Akopov, Aleksandr Andreevich Akopov, Акопов Александр Андреевич

Gender: Male

Perpetrator: Russia

Religion or Belief: Christian – Jehovah's Witness

Reports of Torture: No

Reports of Medical Neglect: No

Date of Detainment: December/12/2018

Date of Release: December/5/2019

Current Status: Released

Religious Leader: No

Most Recent Type of Abuse: Detainment

Reason for Persecution: Attending a Religious Gathering or Meeting Religious Activity Religious Belief

Nature of Charges: Banned Organization Extremism Illicit Financing

Aleksandr Akopov

Extra Bio Info:

Aleksandr Akopov was detained for his religious belief and activity. 

On December 12, 2018, authorities arrested Akopov and charged him with “organizing the activities of a public or religious association or other organization in respect of which a court has adopted a final decision to liquidate or ban activities in connection with extremist activities” (Art. 282.2-1 RCC)

On December 5, 2019, the Neftekum District Court ordered the release of Akopov and banned him from certain actions, including using the mail, phones, internet, and communicating with witnesses.  

On June 5, 2020, investigators opened a new case against Akopov, charging him with “collecting funds…intended to finance the organization, preparation and commission of at least one of the crimes of an extremist orientation, or to ensure the activities of an extremist community or an extremist organization” (Art. 282.3-1 RCC).

On July 29, 2020, prosecutors accused Akopov and another defendant of "acting according to their criminal roles...managed the property of the prohibited [organization]...held meetings...organized a collection of funds to finance the [organization]."

Related Cases: Shamil Sultanov

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