Russian court rejects complaint over investigator's inaction after jailed mathematician reports torture
A Russian court has dismissed a complaint brought by the wife of jailed mathematician Azat Miftakhov, who is serving a four-year sentence for “justifying terrorism” over remarks he allegedly made to fellow inmates. Miftakhov has reported being subjected to torture while in custody.
According to independent outlet Mediazona, Miftakhov's wife, Yelena Gorban, submitted a statement on 17 May alleging that the case investigator had violated procedural deadlines and requirements in handling her complaint. The investigator responded that, after receiving the complaint, he had interviewed Miftakhov and prison staff, inspected the relevant location, and seized video footage. He indicated that a decision would be issued by 11 June, following the completion of expert examinations.
Speaking to journalists during a recess, Miftakhov said that by the time the investigator arrived to inspect the room where the torture had occurred, the carpet and furniture had been removed. “I had abrasions from my face rubbing against the carpet,” he said. Miftakhov also alleged that the investigator “did everything he could to keep it all clean on paper” and that he informally socialised with prison staff. He also said that a cellmate had experienced similar treatment but had chosen not to file a complaint.
On 4 May, investigative outlet The Insider published Miftakhov's detailed account of the torture he says he suffered following his transfer to Penal Colony No. 18, located in the Arctic settlement of Kharp. Miftakhov alleged that he had been subjected to electric shocks, beaten on the soles of his feet, and threatened with rape.
Miftakhov had previously completed a six-year sentence in connection with a broken window at a United Russia party office, and has alleged he was tortured at the time of his initial arrest in 2019. In September 2023, he was detained again immediately upon his release. He was subsequently convicted and sentenced to four more years on the basis that he had allegedly expressed approval of a bombing at an FSB building in Arkhangelsk during a conversation with three fellow inmates.
