100 protesters, Kremlin opposition leader Navalny arrested
- 9 years ago
Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny is ambushed by police in Moscow just after breaking house arrest.
He is detained and then driven back home, local media reported.
100 anti-government protesters were also arrested.
Demonstrators had been rallying for freedom of expression.
(SOUNDBITE) (Russian) MOSCOW RESIDENT, ALLA, SAYING:
"I came here first of all because I am against any repression, against politically motivated cases and prosecution for views. I think every person has the right to express his opinion."
Navalny was sentenced to house arrest earlier in the day for embezzlement. His brother was sentenced to three and a half years in a case seen as part of a campaign to stifle dissent.
Government opponents say jailing Navalny, who led protests against President Vladimir Putin three years ago, could trigger a new wave of protest.
He is detained and then driven back home, local media reported.
100 anti-government protesters were also arrested.
Demonstrators had been rallying for freedom of expression.
(SOUNDBITE) (Russian) MOSCOW RESIDENT, ALLA, SAYING:
"I came here first of all because I am against any repression, against politically motivated cases and prosecution for views. I think every person has the right to express his opinion."
Navalny was sentenced to house arrest earlier in the day for embezzlement. His brother was sentenced to three and a half years in a case seen as part of a campaign to stifle dissent.
Government opponents say jailing Navalny, who led protests against President Vladimir Putin three years ago, could trigger a new wave of protest.