German Citizen Sentenced to Death in Minsk for “Mercenarism” and “Espionage”

On 19 July 2024, the Minsk Regional Court handed down a death sentence to German citizen Rico Krieger, marking a significant and controversial legal development in Belarus.

Krieger was found guilty of charges including “mercenarism” and “espionage.” The trial, which commenced on 6 June, concluded with a conviction based on the assertion that Krieger orchestrated an explosion with the intent to influence governmental decisions, intimidate the populace, and destabilise public order.

These acts were classified under terrorism, specifically involving an individual with a prior criminal record for a similar offence under part 4 of Article 295 of the Belarusian Criminal Code (CC), as well as organised group activity, pursuant to part 3 of Article 289 of the CC.

German Embassy’s Response

The German Embassy in Minsk, when approached by the Belarusian service of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) on 6 June, confirmed its awareness of Krieger’s case and indicated that it was offering consular assistance. However, the embassy declined to comment on the details of the consular services being provided, citing privacy and confidentiality concerns.

In a brief statement, the embassy mentioned, “The German Embassy in Minsk is aware of the case and is providing consular assistance. We ask for your understanding that we cannot comment further on the specifics of individual consular matters.”

Profile of Rico Krieger

Rico Krieger was born in Berlin and is employed as a paramedic-rescuer with the German Red Cross. He is a father to a minor child, who remains in Germany.

Krieger’s professional background includes a stint as a special security officer for the US State Department in Berlin, where he gained experience in armed security operations. Following this role, he transitioned to the healthcare sector, working as a nurse and eventually specialising in emergency medical services.

Krieger’s diverse career reflects a blend of security expertise and medical proficiency, which has made his conviction on terrorism charges all the more startling to those who know him. His colleagues and associates in both the security and medical fields have expressed shock and disbelief at the allegations.

Context of the Verdict

This trial is notable as the first in Belarus to address charges of “mercenarism.” Historically, Belarusian courts have prosecuted individuals under Article 361-3 of the Criminal Code, which pertains to participation in armed formations on the territory of a foreign state, primarily targeting those involved in conflicts such as the ongoing war in Ukraine.

The accusations against Krieger include actions purportedly intended to join military formations in Ukraine, a claim that aligns with Belarusian legal provisions against such activities. Despite this, the precise nature of the accusations remains unclear, as official statements and detailed information from law enforcement and judicial bodies have not been forthcoming.

Reactions and Human Rights Concerns

Human rights organisations have expressed deep concern over the opacity surrounding Krieger’s arrest and subsequent trial. The lack of public disclosure regarding the evidence and the proceedings has led to widespread calls for greater transparency and adherence to international legal standards.

A representative from Viasna, a prominent Belarusian human rights organisation, stated, “The essence of the charges remains unknown to us. Official agencies have not disclosed any information about the detention in this case, which raises serious questions about the legitimacy and transparency of the judicial process.”

Read also:

Evan Gershkovich Sentenced to 16 Years in Russian Penal Colony

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