Russian lawyers study Qatar-detained Russians' case

Russian lawyers have started studying the case of the Russians arrested in Qatar's capital Doha. The lawyers arrived in Doha yesterday.

The Russian prisoners had until today dealt with British and American lawyers.

The lawyers have already met with their principals, Ilya Levitov, head of the press service of the Yegorov, Puginsky, Afanasyev and Partners law firm, told RIA Novosti.

The Russian nationals were charged with involvement in the assassination of Chechen separatist leader Zelimkhan Yandarbiyev. They were arrested in Doha in the early hours of February 19. The three officers were on a business trip in Doha. One of them was later released as he held a diplomatic passport.

When asked if there was any evidence that the Russians were linked to the murder of Yandarbiyev, Mr Levitov said "there must be some evidence as charges have to rest upon evidence." Experts will have to determine whether the evidence is grounded or not, added Mr Levitov.

He did not say when the trial would take place.