Two members of Pussy Riot who escaped incarceration have fled Russia to avoid prosecution, the band confirmed on Sunday.
A Russian Twitter account called Pussy Riot Group, which is believed to be the bands official mouthpiece, announced: "In regard to the pursuit, two of our members have successfully fled the country! They are recruiting foreign feminists to prepare new actions!"
Three members of the all-female anti-Kremlin punk band were given a two-year jail sentence on August 17. This week, Russian police confirmed that they were still searching for the other members of the band.
The fleeing pair were able to avoid being identified and arrested on site as they wore the group's trademark balaclavas during their most recent performance.
The sentence drew international criticism of the Russian government and its clampdown on dissent. Stars including Madonna, Sting, and Paul McCartney have also spoken also out in support of the group.
Reports indicate there are more members still at large.
Pyotr Verzilov, the husband of one of the imprisoned members, said: "You must remember that [there are] 12 or even 14 members who are still in Russia [and who] actively participate in the band's work now. It's a big collective."
Defence lawyers of the convicted band members are expected to appeal their sentences next week.
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