In OSCE, Lithuania raised an issue of the Russian criminal investigation against the Lithuanian law enforcement officials of January 13, 1991 case
On May 23, in the OSCE Permanent Council meeting Lithuania raised an issue of the Russian criminal investigation against Lithuanian judges, prosecutors and investigators of January 13, 1991 case – the largest and most thoroughly examined legal case in modern Lithuanian history, when 14 Lithuanian civilians were killed and more than 800 wounded by the Soviet troops storming the TV Tower and the Radio and TV building in Vilnius.
The ruling of Vilnius Regional Court, adopted on 27 March 2019, concluded that 67 former Soviet officials were found guilty and sentenced for war crimes and crimes against humanity because of their direct involvement in those events.
However, the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation instead of demonstrating understanding and respect for the rule of law principle recently initiated proceedings against Lithuanian law enforcement officials directly involved in this case. This politically motivated act of pressure by Russian authorities contravenes OSCE principles & commitments and undermines independence of judiciary.
There is no statute of limitations for war crimes and crimes against humanity!
