February 02, 2022
ICF Helps Secure Release of Russian Scientists Detained in Sri Lanka
Moscow, Russia – International Chodiev Foundation (ICF) is pleased to assist in the release of three Russian zoologists, who had been detained in Sri Lanka for two years on charges of violating Sri Lankan environmental laws.
Three scientists, namely Alexander Ignatenko, Nikolay Kilafyan, and Artem Ryabov, were detained in Sri Lanka in February 2020 on charges of killing insects and small reptiles. Ignatenko and his colleagues claimed they were only collecting dead insects, which they photographed for research purposes and had no plans to take out of the country. The scientists were placed in detention, and subsequently released with travel restrictions.
On 21 January this year, a Sri Lankan court sentenced three Russian scientists to a fine of Rs 2,885,000 each (equivalent to USD 37,200) for the alleged illegal gathering of rare insects. The court imposed a restriction preventing them from leaving the country until the fine was paid. Failure to comply with the court’s decision by 11 March would result in imprisonment.
Through close cooperation among the International Chodiev Foundation, the Central Office of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Russian Embassy in Colombo, and particularly its Consulate, the fine was promptly paid by the ICF on 31 January. Subsequently, with financial support from the ICF, the zoologists were able to safely return home.
‘I am glad that we were able to help these people facing a challenging situation, and that everything ended well,’ says Dr Patokh Chodiev, ICF’s founder. – But this story should serve as a cautionary tale for other scientists and nature lovers visiting other countries to research the local flora and fauna. Before embarking on such a journey, one should inquire about the laws of the country in question, to avoid finding oneself in a similar situation. As you know, ignorance of the law does not exempt you from responsibility for breaking it.’
Media contacts
Olga Monakhova
Director, ICF representative office in Russia
Tel: +7 (903) 264 88 84
Email: media@internationalchodievfoundation.com
About International Chodiev Foundation (ICF)
The International Chodiev Foundation is a charitable organization established in 1996 by international businessman and philanthropist Dr Patokh Chodiev. The Foundation’s work comprises a broad range of programmes focused on international relations, education, publishing, philanthropy, and the arts.
To find out more about International Chodiev Foundation please visit: www.internationalchodievfoundation.org or find us on Facebook and Instagram.