Activist found hanging in tree

An activist who ran a group in Ukraine helping Belarusians fleeing persecution was found dead in the Ukrainian capital of Kiev.

Vitaly Shishov, leader of the Belarusian House in Ukraine, was found hanging in one of the city's parks not far from his home, police said. A murder probe has been launched, with police investigating that the killing was made to look like suicide.

The Belarusian House in Ukraine reported earlier that Shishov had gone missing during a morning run. Human rights center Viasna quoted friends as saying that he has recently been followed by strangers during his runs.

The Belarusian House in Ukraine helps Belarusians fleeing persecution with their legal status in Ukraine.

Authorities have ramped up the pressure against non-governmental organizations and independent media, conducting more than 200 raids on offices and apartments.

Authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko has vowed to continue a mopping-up operation against activists.