Reports are alleging at least two people have died and about 40 people detained in Chechnya as part of a new crackdown on gay people. (rferl.org)
At least two have died and about 40 people detained in what LGBT rights activists say is a new crackdown on gay people in the Russian republic of Chechnya.
About 40 men and women have been detained on suspicion of being gay, activists from the Russian LGBT Network said on Monday, adding that at least two have died while in detention.
The detainees are believed to be kept at the same facility which was reported on in 2017. During that year, more than 100 gay men were arrested, tortured and – in some cases – killed, activists say.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
Chechnya is located north of the Caucasus and is a predominantly Muslim region. Authorities there have denied the accusations, and federal authorities conducted a probe that found nothing to corroborate the reports.
The crackdown was first reported on Friday but the activists didn't release full details at the time.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Antisemitism Exposed
Fox News' Antisemitism Exposed" newsletter brings you stories on the rising anti-Jewish prejudice across the U.S. and the world."
By entering your email and clicking the Subscribe button, you agree to the Fox News Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, and agree to receive content and promotional communications from Fox News. You understand that you can opt-out at any time.