Authorities in Poland have released two Belarusian nationals who were detained in connection with the murder of Russian artist and activist Semen Skrepetsky. The decision followed a questioning process that revealed no evidence linking them to the crime.
According to Marcin Kozak, a spokesperson for the District Prosecutor’s Office in Lublin, the two individuals, aged 33 and 37, were released after being interviewed as witnesses. They are no longer in custody, as investigators continue to examine surveillance footage and witness statements related to the incident.
“After questioning as witnesses, they were released. They are no longer in custody,” Kozak stated.
The investigation is ongoing, and local police have urged residents to come forward with any relevant information, including dashcam footage that may assist in the inquiry.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk commented on the situation, suggesting that the circumstances surrounding the murder could indicate a politically motivated killing. However, he emphasized the need for more concrete evidence before drawing definitive conclusions.
“The case is complex. If there is a hired killer, it is unfortunately difficult to identify such a person,” Tusk remarked, underscoring the Polish government’s commitment to uncovering the truth.
Semen Skrepetsky, a 44-year-old Russian citizen, was shot dead on June 15 in Biała Podlaska, a town near the Polish-Belarusian border. Initial reports confirmed that he had sustained multiple gunshot wounds, including to the head, chest, and back. Investigators recovered five shell casings and one bullet from a 9mm Luger pistol at the crime scene.
Skrepetsky was known for his provocative art, including a recent demonstration on June 12 in Berlin, where he displayed a caricature of Russian President Vladimir Putin alongside a depiction of Joseph Stalin. He noted in a Telegram post that the stunt had garnered attention from Russian patriots, but also led to threats against him.
Born Robert Kuzovkov in the Russian Republic of Altai, Skrepetsky had been living in Poland since 2021. His work often critiqued political figures, including Putin, Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov, and Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny. His outspoken views had previously landed him in the Ukrainian database “Peacemaker” for his criticisms of the Russian government and Ukrainian authorities.
The investigation into the murder of Russian artist Semen Skrepetsky continues as Polish authorities release two Belarusian suspects after questioning. Prime Minister Donald Tusk has suggested the possibility of political motives behind the killing, which remains under investigation.