UN calls for release of captured Estonian intelligence agent in Russia

  • 2014-09-16
  • From wire reports, TALLINN

The United Nations general assembly hall (photo: twitter)

The United Nations (UN) has called for the immediate release of captured Estonian intelligence official Eston Kohver.

Tallinn says Kohver, 44 was captured in Estonian territory last Friday by members of Russia's secret service FSB after investigating a case of cross border crime.

Moscow, however, say Kohver was carrying out espionage activities. Russian media showed video reports of Kohver being led to a detention center in Russia. A handgun, 5,000 euros of cash and a mission brief was found on Kohver at the time of his arrest.

The secret agent is now being held in a Moscow prison awaiting court proceedings. If found guilty, he could face up to 20 years in prison, his lawyers say.

The UN Human Rights Council in Geneva regarding the arrest  Kohver at a meeting recently and called for his release.

Estonia's Permanent Representative to the United Nations,Jüri Seilenthal said Kohver's arrest was illegal and contrary to international law.

“We call for his prompt return to Estonia,” Seilenthal added.