Teenage girls who were raped and robbed during Russia's lockdown threatened with fines for breaking COVID-19 restrictions

Two teenage girls who were sexually attacked and robbed while they were out for a walk during Russia’s lockdown were threatened with fines for breaking Coronavirus restrictions.

The two friends, aged 17 and 18, were reportedly attacked in the Siberian city of Krasnoyarsk last month when residents were banned from going outside in a bid to stop the spread of the deadly virus.

Police sources told local outlet Tayga that one of the teenagers had been raped while the other was subjected to ‘violent acts of a sexual nature’. They also had their jewellery and phones taken.

After the attack, the girls reported the matter to police who have since arrested a 55-year-old man who was in possession of their stolen items.

A criminal inquiry has been opened against the suspect, who is under investigation for alleged sexual crimes, using and threatening violence, and robbery.

According to Mail Online, police also activated protocols with fines of up to £33 each against the two women for going outside during the lockdown despite not having a valid reason.

Ekaterina Rositskaya, head of the press service of the Krasnoyarsk Ministry of Internal Affairs, confirmed the punishment.

‘After finding them on the street at night — without urgent need — the police drew up reports and sent them to the district administration.’

A decision is now being made on the level of the fines, she said.

However, after the case sparked outrage online, the fines were suddenly dropped.

‘Initiating a case was refused because the victims turned to police over a threat to life and health, the Krasnoyarsk region’s Covid-19 headquarters said.