Criminal investigation initiated over arson attack on Chief Editor’s home

The Donetsk police have initiated a criminal investigation into the arson attempt on the flat occupied by the Editor of the opposition Internet publication “Novyny Donbasu” [Donbas News], Oleksy Matsuka.

According to the police report issued, the investigation is under Article 296 § 1 of the Criminal Code – “hooliganism”.

As reported, during the afternoon of 31 July an arson attack was carried out on the flat of the Chief Editor of the Internet newspaper Novyny Donbasu [Donbas News] and Head of the civic organization Donetsk Institute of Information.  The criminals left bags with cement wedged against the door and then set the door alight. Matsuka was not home, and firemen put out the blaze.  A funeral wreath was placed near the door with a message reading: “To Oleksy Vitaliyovych from grieving friends”.

The journalist is convinced the attack is connected with his professional activities.