On 24 May 2013, according to the information published in mass media Head of the Internal Affairs Department in the city of Bila Cerkva in his personal office inflicted bodily harm to the advocate Viktor Smaliy who defends activist of the Road Guard movement Oleksandr Gorbach in case regarding falsification by police officers a protocol of administrative infraction compiled with reference to Mr. Gorbach based on the Article 185 of the Code of Ukraine on Administrative Offences.

Valentyn Zagariya, Chairman of Higher Qualification and Disciplinary Bar Commission of Ukraine, noted that life, health, honour and dignity of advocate and members of his family, as well as their property are under the state’s protection. Thus offending them involves responsibility set out by law. That is why the law-enforcement authorities must take immediate rigorous actions in case the fact of the offence on life, health of advocate Smoliy during execution of his official duties is confirmed.

In turn, advocates’ self-government bodies will be taking all necessary measures to ensure appropriate protection of advocates from illegal encroachments.