Ukrainian feminist group FEMEN have accused the police in Kiev of planting explosives and guns in the activists’ headquarters in an attempt to smear the group’s name and curb their activities.
A police spokesman claimed the raid and search of FEMEN’s offices was conducted after police received an anonymous call that dangerous materials might be stored at a given address.
In a video apparently filmed by police, agents display a hand grenade and a gun allegedly hidden under ceiling panels. (See video below)
Officers also say they found leaflets with portraits of Russian President Vladimir Putin and Russian Orthodox Patriarch Kiril pictured in snipers’ cross-hairs.
FEMEN leaders and activists were questioned by police, and the movement’s offices were sealed. Formal charges of illegal possession of arms and explosives were brought forward though no-one has been detained as yet. Activists say they expect charges of plotting to kill Putin and Patriarch Kiril to be brought forward. Both were in Kiev last month to commemorate the 1025th anniversary of the Baptism of Kievan Rus (introduction of Christianity).
FEMEN deny all the charges and claim the evidence was planted by police in an apparent provocation.