According to a press release by FCS Russia, a lorry driver was detained in Smolensk Oblast after assaulting a customs officer.
Smolensk customs import-control staff spotted a truck illegally carrying goods from Belarus. The driver refused to proceed to a temporary storage warehouse for inspection, turned back toward the border and struck an officer conducting customs control, injuring him.
Smolensk customs and the local Federal Security Service border directorate stopped the vehicle and detained the driver.
Authorities are deciding whether to open a case under Article 318 of the Criminal Code (violence against a public official), punishable by up to ten years’ imprisonment. Refusing lawful orders, insulting officials or using violence may lead to administrative (Article 19.4 of the Code of Administrative Offences) or criminal liability (Articles 318–319).
