Aysel Umudova Not Granted House Arrest

Aysel Umudova

Journalist claims her detention was related to her professional activities.

On January 24, a motion for the release of Aysel Umudova, a journalist with Meydan TV, under house arrest was reviewed at the Baku Investigation Detention Center. The hearing took place at the Khatai District Court, chaired by Judge Aygun Hasanova, with Aysel Umudova in attendance.

Aysel Umudova’s lawyer, Agil Layic, reported that the judge rejected the journalist’s motion. The defense argued that there was no legal basis for keeping the journalist in detention. During the hearing, Umudova explained that, despite being aware of the ongoing investigation, she had traveled abroad multiple times and returned without attempting to evade it. “Aysel Umudova stated that she had never tried to evade the investigation, interfere with witnesses, or hinder the course of the investigation. Therefore, she believes her detention is unjustified. She also said that her arrest was directly related to her journalistic activities.” Agil Layic said after the hearing.

What is the situation with Meydan TV?

On December 6, 2024, journalists from Meydan TV were detained in a police operation. Each journalist was charged under Article 206.3.2 of the Criminal Code, which pertains to smuggling committed by a group of individuals acting in concert. Two days later, on December 8, 2024, a four-month detention order was issued for the journalists, including Aytac Ahmadova (Tapdig), Aysel Umudova, Aynur Ganbarova (Elgunash), Natig Cavadli, Ramin Cabrayilzada (Deko), Khayala Aghayeva, and Ulvi Tahirov, the Deputy Director of the Baku Journalism School.

Meydan TV and the detained journalists have denied the charges, asserting that their arrests were directly linked to their journalistic activities. They further claimed to be facing professional pressures. As an independent media organization, Meydan TV is known for exposing illegal activities and corruption within the Azerbaijani government. Both local human rights activists and international organizations have condemned these actions, stating that they are part of a broader repressive campaign ordered by the Azerbaijani authorities.

ГлавнаяThe Meydan TV CaseAysel Umudova Not Granted House Arrest