Outrage Erupts in Saratov Region as Community Blames Roma for Tragic Car Accident

Hundreds of locals in the southern Saratov region organized protests against the Romani community after a reported fatal car accident involving one of its members, according to local media on Wednesday.

On Tuesday morning, a 15-year-old moped rider lost his life in a collision with a car in Podlesnoye, a village situated approximately 75 kilometers (46 miles) northeast of Saratov along the Volga River.

Authorities took into custody a 36-year-old driver of the car, who was identified by media as belonging to the Romani community.

Approximately 200 residents gathered to express their outrage, calling for the removal of local Roma and accusing them of various anti-social activities, such as drug trafficking, disturbing the peace, and driving without licenses, as reported by the Saratov-based outlet Vzglyad Info.

One participant in the protest stated, “We’re not nationalists, but their behavior speaks for itself,” as shared with the outlet.

Footage released by Vzglyad Info depicted residents confronting police and expressing their grievances. “We’ll be relieved if you get rid of all of them,” declared one protester.

The local municipal district head allegedly informed the police chief and regional prosecutor that the area was inhabited by “individuals who often break the law.”

Residents indicated to the outlet that “most” of the Roma in the village left in the aftermath of the protests.

This turmoil follows a recent incident less than a year ago in the Chelyabinsk region, where a murder sparked riots and police operations targeting the Romani community.