A new criminal case has been initiated against former military man from Chita, Maxim Ivannikov, who was sentenced to 15 years in prison on charges of treason, reported «People of Baikal».
According to a source from the publication, the case was initiated because of his conversation with a cellmate nicknamed Shaban: the men jokingly discussed what would happen if «Russia is captured», and they would not be able to gain freedom. This conversation was overheard by two other inmates, who reported to the detention center administration that Ivannikov and Shaban were discussing an escape plan. Ivannikov is suspected of «attempting to escape and take hostages» in the detention center.
Ivannikov's wife said that law enforcement is conducting investigative actions, and no charges have been brought against the prisoner yet.
In early April, the 38-year-old ex-military man was sentenced to 15 years in a high-security colony on charges of treason, inciting extremism on the internet, participating in the activities of a terrorist organization, and aiding terrorism.
According to the investigation, Ivannikov maintained «contact with terrorists controlled by Ukrainian special services», «called for the violent overthrow of the constitutional order», and «leaked military data to the special services—a participant of the SVO». Ivannikov's wife claims that the reason for her husband's persecution was a comment in a telegram channel of «some organization» with the words: «I propose joining the partisans and undermining the regime from within».
Ivannikov himself, after the sentence, spoke about torture during detention. According to him, initially, the law enforcement officers tortured him with electricity, beat him, and then forced him to read a pre-prepared text against the backdrop of the tricolor, stating that he «admits his guilt and renounces the partisan movement».