Dmitry Kolker, a doctor of physics and mathematics at Novosibirsk State University, whose website says he heads a laboratory for quantum optics, was arrested on charges of high treason, according to TASS, citing the Novosibsk district court. Kolker and the Sovetsky District Court in Novosibirsk, one of Russia’s largest cities about 2,800 km (1,750 miles) east of Moscow, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Colker’s lawyer could not be reached. Several Russian scientists have been arrested and charged with treason in recent years for allegedly distributing sensitive material to foreigners. Kremlin critics say the arrests often stem from unfounded paranoia. State treason is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. TASS quoted Kolker’s family as accusing him of collaborating with Chinese security services. Kolker has previously lectured at an international conference in China and has now been transferred to a prison in Moscow, his son Maxim said. Kolker’s daughter said the scientist had been diagnosed with stage IV cancer, TASS reported. (Report by Reuters; Edited by Mark Trevelyan)
