Appaz Kurtamet: Imprisoned for 7 years for an act of human kindness
Appaz Kurtamet: Imprisoned for 7 years for an act of human kindness
On July 23, 2022, the Russian occupation authorities in Crimea once again demonstrated their blatant disregard for human rights and justice. Appaz, a young Crimean Tatar, found himself ensnared in the cruel machinery of the Russian Federation’s repression. His only “crime” was a simple act of generosity – lending 500 hryvnias (approximately $13) to an acquaintance. For this, Appaz was sentenced to seven years in prison on the basis of fabricated charges and the dubious testimony of so-called “secret witnesses.”
This case exemplifies the lawlessness that has become a hallmark of Russian governance in occupied Crimea. By disregarding both international law and the basic principles of justice, the Russian Federation continues its campaign to silence dissent and target the indigenous Crimean Tatar nation.
Despite the harsh conditions, Appaz’s family, friends, and particularly his mother, Ayshe Kurtamet, have not given up hope. Their suffering is not just a personal tragedy but a call to the global community’s conscience, urging immediate action to secure his release and challenge the ongoing persecution in Crimea.
For media inquiries, please contact Ayshe Kurtamet, mother of the political prisoner, at +380681649953
Over the past 10 years, out of more than 200 prisoners released from Russian captivity and prisons, only four were Crimean Tatars and Crimeans. Among them are Oleg Sentsov, Akhtem Chiygoz, Ilmi Umerov, and Nariman Dzhelyalov. This clearly illustrates the systematic nature of Russia’s repressive policy against the indigenous people of Crimea and the peninsula’s residents, whose rights are grossly violated and whose struggle for freedom and justice continues.
FreeAppaz CrimeanTatarFoundationUSA