Belarusian opposition activist Anatol Kotau disappears after trip to Istanbul; investigation launched

The disappearance of Belarusian opposition activist Anatol Kotau, who had been living in Poland, has raised serious concerns, with scenarios ranging from abduction to betrayal. Kotau was last seen passing through border control at Warsaw's Okęcie Airport on August 21, 2025, boarding a flight to Istanbul, despite having a return ticket to Poland for later that week.

Kotau, a 46-year-old ethnic Russian, had been residing in Warsaw with his wife and child, holding refugee status in Poland due to his opposition activities against the Belarusian regime. He faces a 12-year prison sentence issued by Alexander Lukashenko's government. His background is complex; he is a former diplomat, and his parents and brother are reportedly officers in the Belarusian KGB, adding layers of intrigue to his situation.

An international journalistic investigation is reportedly looking into the circumstances surrounding Kotau's disappearance, particularly focusing on his last known journey by yacht. The investigation aims to shed light on what truly happened to the activist. Adding to the mystery and concern, Polish law enforcement agencies have allegedly refused to initiate proceedings regarding the missing refugee.

The article implies that Kotau's decision to present an old Belarusian passport in Istanbul, despite holding a Geneva travel document, might be an attempt to maintain anonymity. The reasons behind this choice, whether for convenience or something more significant, remain unclear and contribute to the unsettling nature of his vanishing.