A Statement in Support of Martin Kochesoko, the leader of “Khabza,” from the Representatives of the Circassian organizations of the Republic of Adygea.
We express our concern and indignation at the detention of the Circassian activist Martin Kochesoko, It is known from sources close to Mr. Kochesoko that he was detained on the federal highway Vladikavkaz-Nalchik, after he dropped his cousin in a village near the administrative border with Ossetia.
At the time of his arrest, Martin was alone. According to the police, during the inspection, narcotic substance was found in his car. Martin Kochesoko has been one of the brightest public figures for many years, and we want to emphasize that he has never been involved in any offence or wrongdoings. We believe that his arrest is connected to his activities as a leader of the Circassian movement and as an outspoken critic of the Russian government.
It is known that Russian law enforcement agencies started practicing such methods of influencing public figures more and more often in recent times. Martin Kochesoko himself made it clear recently about possible provocations, after the authorities visited his house threatening him and his parents.
We consider such forms of repression to be unacceptable and demand his immediate release. We urge the entire Circassian community to rally and speak in support of Martin Kochesoko.
Chairman of the Maykop Public Organization "Adyghe Khase - Circassian Council"
Zaurbiy Chundyshko
Circassian public figure Yuri Yakhutl
Chairman of the Adygean Republican Public Movement "Circassian Progress"
Aslan Agirov
Maykop, Republic of Adygea
08.06.2019