Circumstances surrounding the arrest of a believer in Sochi

On September 15, 2017, Sergey Isaev, a 32-year-old Sochi resident who was arrested because of his religion, returned to his wife and children after being held in custody for 8 days on false charges of disobeying police officers. Meanwhile, the FSB pressured a local teenager to give false testimony against Isaev.

Sergey Isaev was detained at the pedestrian bridge over the Khosta River while walking with a family friend, 16-year-old Arseny U., on the basis of a statement from a passer-by who recognized them as Jehovah's Witnesses. The men were escorted to a police station, where they were interrogated and searched by FSB Major Sergei Mutsko. The teenager was released, and Sergey Isaev was arrested for 10 days on ridiculous charges of disobedience to police officers.

The next day, 16-year-old Arseny, as well as his mother, were summoned to the FSB. Threatening criminal prosecution and sanctions against himself as well as his mother, FSB Major Mutsko demanded that Arseny sign a prepared testimony against Isaev. Despite tremendous pressure, Arseniy firmly refused to sign anything.

During the appeal hearing, the Krasnodar Regional Court was presented with a CCTV footage, which clearly shows that Sergey Isaev walked with the police officers without any resistance at their request. As a result, the court ruled to release Sergey Isaev.

Sergey and his wife are not frightened, they maintain firm faith and courage. They are grateful to God and everyone who helped them in difficult times.