Poland to deport 63 people after riots at Belarusian rapper’s concert

Authorities have initiated proceedings against 63 individuals to leave Poland following riots during a concert by Belarusian rapper Maks Korzh at Warsaw’s National Stadium, Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced at a government meeting on August 12.

The concert took place on August 9, coinciding with the “March of Freedom” in Warsaw, which commemorated the anniversary of the 2020 Belarusian presidential election and the ensuing crackdown on opposition activistsm, Caliber.Az reports via Polish media. 

According to Tusk, the 63 people, out of which 57 were Ukrainians and six were Belarusians, will be required to leave the country either voluntarily or forcibly if they do not comply.

Courts have acted swiftly in several cases, imposing penalties where offenses or crimes were committed.

The prime minister praised law enforcement agencies for their rapid and effective response and emphasised that the state "must act decisively to prevent and punish all perpetrators, regardless of nationality."

Tusk also warned against any flare-up of anti-Ukrainian sentiment in Poland, stressing that Ukrainian authorities must ensure no anti-Polish actions arise in Kyiv or within Ukraine.

He described these measures as essential for maintaining mutual security between the two nations.

According to Polish media, during the concert of the Belarusian rapper, some of the audience began to jump over the barriers to get from the stands to the stadium floor. Several participants in the riots started fights with security and stewards, and also lit fireworks. In addition, the flag of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army, prohibited by Polish law, appeared in the stands.

In total, the police detained 109 people during the concert. 

By Sabina Mammadli