18:23, 8 October 2003

Well-known Chechen journalist and film director Said-Magomed Khachukayev was arrested in Belgium

Three months ago he applied for political asylum and awaited for a summons to the foreign ministry, which was repeatedly delayed.

On October 7 he was called in for an interview where he was arrested and taken in an unknown direction.

Only late in the evening he was allowed to make a phone call and tell about his whereabouts.

Representatives of the Chechen Diaspora tried to get permission to visit the detainee, but they were denied even a phone contact. No information about the reasons for the arrest of the Chechen journalist was given. Strangely enough, he is mentioned as a Russian in the lists of prisoners.

The Association of Chechens in Belgium has protested against the illegal detention of Said-Magomed Khachukayev and urged international, public and human rights organizations to interfere and do everything possible for the detainee's immediate discharge.

Source: The Chechen Times Website