Independent journalist Ramin Deko and Meydan TV employees Aynur Ganbarova (Elgunesh), Aytaj Ahmadova (Tapdig), Khayala Agayeva, Natig Javadli, and Aysel Umudova were detained on December 6 on suspicion of “smuggling.”
Their lawyers reported that the journalists were detained as part of a criminal investigation launched under Article 206.3.2 of the Criminal Code, which involves smuggling committed by a group acting in prior collusion. The journalists have been formally charged.
Nazim Musayev, the lawyer for journalist Khayala Agayeva, said that Aghayeva denied the allegations and said that she was arrested due to her journalistic activities.
Independent journalist Ramin Deko was detained around noon Baku local time. Afterwards, contact was lost to journalists Aynur Elgunesh, Natig Javadli, Khayala Agayeva, Aytac Tapdig, and Aysel Umudova.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) issued a statement saying that Ramin Jabrailzade (Deko) was detained by police based on information received regarding the illegal import of foreign currency into the country. Several individuals were detained as part of the investigation.
Authorities searched the homes of most of the detained journalists, confiscating their equipment and personal belongings.
Reports indicate that individuals unrelated to the “Meydan TV case” have also been detained, with at least 13 people in custody.
Since November of last year, dozens of journalists in Azerbaijan have been arrested on charges of “smuggling.” Both local and international human rights organizations have condemned these charges as fabricated and are calling for the immediate release of the detained journalists.
