Three Dutch Tourists have reportedly been arrested in Russia. The first foreigners to be arrested under the countries new anti-gay propaganda laws.

In Murmansk three Dutch citizens were detained, there are unconfirmed reports that they were working with local LGBTI activists.

The three arrested on July 22 were reportedly given just a few hours between their arrest and their first court appearance. If convicted they trio could be deported, heavily fined or spend up to two weeks in a Russian prison.

Activists continue to raise concern about how foreigners will be treated at the 2014 Winter Olympics which are scheduled to be held in the country. Pressure is increasing on major sponsors like Coca‐Cola, Omega Watches, VISA, Price Waterhouse Coopers, Procter & Gamble, Samsung, and Panasonic to withdraw their support for the competition.

The International Olympics Committee has said it will work to ensure a discrimination free Olympics.

OIP Staff

Update: 23 July 2013, later reports clarified that four tourists had been arrested.