600 jailed as Lukashenko vows ‘no revolution’ in Belarus

21/12/10 13:27 CET

world news

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Around 600 demonstrators have been jailed in Belarus after police broke up protests against the re-election of President Alexander Lukashenko.

Most will serve five to 15 days but some could face longer terms of up to 15 years if found guilty

The US and the EU have called for the immediate release of all prisoners.

Police broke up fresh attempts to demonstrate on Monday night.

Seven presidential candidates are among those being held by authorities in Belarus including Andrei Sannikov.

He and his wife, journalist Irina Khalip, were arrested whilst speaking live to a Moscow-based radio station on Monday.

“They are pressing me up against the car,” she said. “They are hitting me in the face! They are tying my hands back.”

Despite international condemnation, President Lukashenko pledged tough consequences for those who opposed his re-election.

“In Belarus there will be no revolution and criminality, call it what you like. The most important thing is people’s security, calm and order in this country,” he said.

More about: Belarus, Protest

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