Lithuania begins trial of terrorism suspects, a Belarusian among the accused
A judicial process has begun in Lithuania against six foreigners, among whom is a citizen of Belarus. They are accused of terrorist activity related to an attempt to set fire to military equipment intended for use in Ukraine, writes «Radio Svaboda».
Building of the District Court in Šiauliai. Illustrative photo. Photo: Wikimedia Commons
The case is being heard by the District Court in the city of Šiauliai. The trial is taking place behind closed doors to avoid disclosing official information and to ensure the safety of witnesses, including anonymous ones. During the transportation of the accused to court, they were accompanied by reinforced police forces, and some officers were armed.
In total, six people have been brought before the court — five men and one woman. Among them are citizens of various countries: Belarus, Colombia, Spain, Cuba, and Russia. All of them are under arrest. The police did not allow journalists to have direct contact with the accused.
According to the case materials, these individuals are suspected of organizing and participating in a terrorist group, attempting to commit a terrorist act, and financing such activities. The investigation believes that they acted on instructions from the Main Intelligence Directorate (GRU) of Russia.
The main episode of the case concerns September 2024, when, according to the indictment, the group planned to set fire to the infrastructure of a company that deals with equipment for radio frequency spectrum analysis and which was intended for the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The value of this equipment is estimated at several million euros.
It is also reported that some of the participants had previously tried to commit arson, but without significant results. Some of them subsequently fled to Latvia but were apprehended and returned to Lithuania.
The charges are very serious, and all defendants in the case face up to 15 years in prison. The identity of the Belarusian accused is not disclosed — only his initials M. B. are known.
The case was referred to court back in January, but its consideration only began now.
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