Additional Name(s): Rishat Khalitovich Girfanov, Гирфанов Ришат Халитович

Gender: Male

Perpetrator: Russia

Religion or Belief: Muslim – Sunni

Reports of Torture: No

Reports of Medical Neglect: No

Appeal: Rejected

Sentence: 8 Years' Imprisonment

Date of Detainment: September/30/2015

Date of Sentencing: August/3/2016

Date of Release: September/29/2023

Current Status: Released

Religious Leader: No

Most Recent Type of Abuse: Imprisonment

Reason for Persecution: Attending a Religious Gathering or Meeting Discussing Religion & Religious Texts Possession of Religious Materials Religious Activity Religious Association Religious Belief

Nature of Charges: Banned Organization Terrorism

Rishat Girfanov

Extra Bio Info:

Rishat Girfanov was imprisoned for his religious belief and activity. 

On September 30, 2015, authorities arrested Girfanov after accusing him of being a member of the banned Hizb ut-Tahrir organization. He and his colleagues allegedly attended meetings for the organization, studied the its literature, and sought to attract new supporters. Authorities raided Girfanov's home and reportedly confiscated organizational literature. 

On August 3, 2016, the Moscow District Military Court sentenced Girfanov to eight years in prison for “participating in the activities of an organization…recognized as terrorist” (Art. 205.5-2 RCC).

On December 20, 2016, Girfanov's verdict was upheld. 

On September 29, 2023, Girfanov was released from prison after completing his sentence.

Girfanov is married with three children.

Related Cases: Danil Kunakbayev, Denis Zagitdinov, Vasily Tkachyov

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