Two UCP Members Got into Neurosurgery after Attack of Four Strangers

28.04.2004.

Fiodar Bakunow and Siarhei Katushonak told RFE/RL, after the end of Chernobyl action in Vitebsk they went to the local office of United Civic Party to leave the symbolic Chernobyl bell. At about 8 p.m. they went home. On Blakhin bridge near "Belarus" Movie Theater a dark car stopped near them and 4 people got out. Two strangers stayed by the car. The other two walked along the bridge. The last thing Bakunow and Katushonak remember was a dash on the back of the head.

They regained consciousness only in several hours at an abandoned lot not far from the place they had been attacked. An accidental driver gave them a ride to hospital. In the morning they informed their families about the incident.

Neurosurgeon Uladzimir Sidarenka assesses their level of health as satisfactory. Both UCP activists have brain concussion and evident signs of beating: abrasions and bruises. The doctor says both Bakunow and Katushonak will have to spend at least 10 days in hospital.

On 27 April the UCP activists reported the incident to police. However, they are not sure if they will be able to recognize the offenders: the strangers attacked from behind and did not utter a word during the short fight.
In opinion of the opposition activists, only specially trained people could attack like that. They say they have no idea what was the purpose of the attack.