Kyiv police responded to the violation of journalists’ rights near the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra

According to law enforcement officials, a criminal case has been initiated.

“Media representatives contacted the Pechersk police department with a statement regarding obstruction of the lawful professional activities of journalists. The complainants reported that while filming a story one of the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra clergies damaged the operator’s equipment,” said in a police statement.

The sanction of the article provides for a fine in the amount up to fifty untaxed minimum incomes of citizens or arrest for up to six months, or imprisonment for up to three years. The pre-trial investigation is ongoing, law enforcement officials said.

The National Union of Journalists of Ukraine condemns the gross obstruction of journalistic activity that occurred today near the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, and relies on prompt investigation and protection of the rights of media workers.