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Russian journalist detained in Taksim square for taking pictures without permission

Russian diplomats are in talks with Istanbul police over releasing from custody Arkady Babchenko

ANKARA, June 15 (Itar-Tass) - Russian diplomats are in talks with Istanbul police over releasing from custody Russian journalist Arkady Babchenko, who was detained on Friday, Russia’s consul-general in Istanbul, Nikolai Kuzovenko, told Itar-Tass on Friday.

“The police say Babchenko was taking pictures in Taksim square without permission and offered resistance at the moment of detention. Our diplomats promptly visited the police station to provide consular support for the detainee. Negotiations are still in progress. The conditions of his release are in focus,” Kuzovenko said.

He explained that the authorities’ main complaint was over resistance to police who detained the reporter.

According to the consul-general, the reporter had no permission to journalistic activities in Turkey. He had arrived in the country as a tourist.

Under local laws a person detained for such a violation can be set free without any charges put forward. In that case such a person can stay in Turkey until the expiration of the visa on the condition of refraining from any professional or other activity requiring special permission. The one who abuses these conditions may be deported.

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