ICC opens probe into alleged crimes against humanity by Belarus

AMSTERDAM, March 12 (Reuters) – International Criminal Court prosecutors said on Thursday they had opened an investigation into whether the Belarusian government committed crimes that led to the deportation of its opponents.

Belarus is not a member of the ICC, but the case was filed by Lithuania, which is a member.

Prosecutors determined that at least some of the crimes alleged by Belarusian authorities were committed on Lithuanian territory, giving them jurisdiction.

The Belarusian embassy in the Netherlands did not respond to a request for comment.

Prosecutors said there was reason to believe Belarus’ actions were aimed at “real or perceived opponents” of the Belarusian government.

“Moreover, there is a reasonable basis to believe that these crimes were committed as part of a widespread and systematic attack on civilian populations, given their size, the number of victims and the organized nature of the actions,” they added.

Belarusian opposition leader ‌Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya said she welcomed the announcement.

“Hundreds of thousands of Belarusians have suffered and continue to suffer due to the regime’s actions. Lukashenka’s policies also pose a threat to Belarus’ neighbors,” he said in the statement. “This decision revives hope. That justice will prevail, those responsible will be held accountable, and the victims will finally receive truth and justice.”

(Reporting by Bart Meijer and Makini Brice; Editing by Mark Porter)