Alexei Navalny’s doctor, Anastasia Vasilyeva and other medics from an independent organization have been arrested by the Russian police. Supporters protested in front of the entrance to Navalny’s penal colony in Pokrov because they want more information about his condition.
According to a lawyer for the activist, Navalny has already lost five kilos since the start of his hunger strike on March 31. The human rights organization Amnesty International called on President Vladimir Putin not to let his prominent opponent die.
Security at the penal colony east of Moscow where Navalny is being held has been ramped up since Tuesday morning. There was a checkpoint in front of the gate of the complex in Pokrov. The police also blocked the road with a metal barricade. The parking lot may only be used by prison staff.
A Russian newspaper previously reported that Navalny had been transferred to the infirmary of the penal camp. He had a high temperature and a nasty cough, and three fellow inmates had tuberculosis, it was reported via Instagram. He would also have been tested for corona.
Navalny, 44, who was poisoned last year, had previously complained of severe back pain and numb legs.
A protester at the prison said she had come to show solidarity. “I believe he is innocent, I am completely on his side,” she said. “For some reason, the people who can really make a difference for this country end up in prison.”
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