MINSK, 8 January (BelTA) – The operational situation in the country is stable and under control, Belarus’ Internal Affairs Minister Ivan Kubrakov told journalists following his report to the head of state, BelTA has learned.
One of the topics of the report was the operational situation during the holiday period. According to Ivan Kubrakov, the president constantly keeps this issue under control: “On 1 January, I reported on the operational situation and ensuring public order during the New Year holidays and specifically on New Year’s Eve. I want to emphasize that the operational situation in the country is calm and under control.”
The minister also spoke about ensuring public order at holiday events: “I want to note that there were quite a few across the country: on New Year’s Eve alone, more than 2,000 festive events took place. Public order was maintained, and not a single crime was committed at the sites of these celebrations.”
Ivan Kubrakov addressed administrative offenses. According to him, despite weather conditions, the ministry took all necessary measures to ensure road safety. “As of today, there has been a decrease in the number of traffic accidents leading to injuries and fatalities. We began preparations in advance,” he added.
The minister also noted that since 1 January, the internal affairs bodies have been receiving on average more than 5,000 reports daily. “Naturally, work has been organized to respond promptly to all citizens’ reports, and all necessary assistance is being provided,” he assured.
“In addition, we see the current weather conditions, heavy snowfalls, and we are assisting citizens with clearing areas of snow, including in the city of Minsk and regional centers,” Ivan Kubrakov said.
The minister also stressed that the New Year holidays were not without crimes, including serious and especially grave ones. “In the first eight days of January, five murders were committed. Yes, this is fewer than last year, but still five human lives lost,” Ivan Kubrakov emphasized. He added that 14 citizens had suffered severe bodily injuries. Seven instances of hooliganism were also reported, mostly involving damage to property.
Speaking about the specifics of crimes during the New Year holidays, the head of the ministry emphasized that most of them occurred at citizens' residences after alcohol consumption.