20 anti-Kremlin protesters detained in Moscow
Mar 31, 2012, 3:40 PM
MOSCOW (AP) – Russian police have broken up a small anti-Kremlin protest and detained an opposition leader and about 20 activists in central Moscow.
Associated Press reporters witnessed Saturday the detention of Eduard Limonov, leader of the banned National Bolshevik party, along with the others, who had gathered on Moscow’s Triumphalnaya square for an unsanctioned rally.
The protesters chanted “Russia Without Putin!” and “Shame!” Some threw flare-type fireworks and unfurled slogans criticizing and ridiculing the Kremlin.
Similar opposition demonstrations were held on the 31st day of the past two years in a nod to the 31st Article of the Russian constitution, which guarantees the right of assembly.
However, Russian authorities often deny permission for demonstrations and break up unsanctioned gatherings.
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