Controversial Russian motorcycle club being monitored while in Slovakia

Members and sympathisers of Russian motorcycle club the Night Wolves will be monitored by police during their stay in Slovakia, and any violation of law will be punished appropriately, said Interior Minister Robert Kaliňák (Smer-SD) on Tuesday. Kaliňák was speaking in response to information that members of the motorcycle club have already entered Slovakia on their ride from Moscow to Berlin, commemorating WWII Victory Day. Based on previous experience with the Night Wolves from the past, the interior minister doesn't expect any trouble. "What's important for us is to have public order and our laws upheld to the letter", said Kaliňák, who didn't specify how many Night Wolves are in Slovakia. He added that some Slovak nationals are among the club's members, however. According to Kaliňák, the most obvious presence of Night Wolves in Slovakia is expected today (May 4) and Thursday (May 5), although the club core has stayed in Russia. "Slovakia is a democratic country that won't persecute anyone for their opinion. If any Slovak decides to become part of any motorcycle club, we won't persecute them, provided that they respect the laws of this country", said Kaliňák. This year's ride set off from Moscow on Friday, April 29. The route goes through Russia, Belarus, Poland, Slovakia, Austria, the Czech Republic and Germany. The final destination is Berlin, due to be reached on May 9, which is celebrated as WWII Victory Day in Russia.