Crimean Tatar imam fined for holding prayers

A report was drawn up against the imam of the Muslim community “Eski Kyrym” Izet Sayfullin, who was previously detained by the Crimean police, under the article of “illegal missionary activity.”

As noted by the chairman of the “Eski Kyrym” community, Idris Yurdamov, today’s searches in the houses of the Crimean Tatars are connected with the prayer that Sayfullin conducted earlier. According to security officials, only an imam appointed by the Russian-controlled part of the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Crimea can conduct prayers. The residents of the city do not know this imam.

“Previously, we had an imam from the muftiate - he calmly conducted prayers for 7 years, but then he disappeared. We don't know where he is. People began to wonder how we would conduct prayers without an imam. As a result, we gathered and elected Saifullin,” Yurdamov spoke about the situation.

In addition, the police drew up a report against activist Lenur Yakubov under an article about the demonstration of “extremist” symbols. The case materials were sent to court, but what exactly it is connected with is unknown.

In addition to these activists, searches were also carried out in the Old Crimea mosque, the houses of the chairman of the Eski Kyrym community, Idris Yurdamov, and activist Shevekt Kiyamov.

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