Azerbaijani authorities have rearrested Toplum TV journalist Farid Ismayilov, accusing him of violating movement restrictions imposed following his March 2024 arrest during a sweeping crackdown on civil society. His lawyer disputes the claims, asserting that Ismayilov adhered to the restrictions.
Now, the court has rearrested him, ordering two months and 20 days of pre-trial detention.
According to Ismayilov’s attorney, Zibeyda Sadiqova, the latest arrest stems from accusations that he traveled to different regions without notifying police—claims she denies. Sadiqova argued that Ismayilov had been reporting to police three times a week as required. She also highlighted his health issues, noting that he was detained despite having recently undergone surgery.
Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty reported that the original currency smuggling charges against Ismayilov and others detained in the crackdown have been expanded to include allegations of “legalization of property obtained through crime,” “tax evasion,” and “working without a contract.” If convicted, the charges could result in sentences of up to 12 years in prison.
In December of last year, Azerbaijani authorities launched a new crackdown on one of the country’s few remaining independent media outlets, Meydan TV, on contentious charges of currency smuggling. As part of the crackdown, six journalists and editors—Aynur Ganbarova (Elgunash), Khayala Aghayeva, Aytac Ahmadova (Tapdig), Natig Javadli, Ramin Jabrayilzada (Deko), and Aysel Umudova—were detained, along with Ulvi Tahirov, the deputy director of the Baku Journalism School, which trains aspiring journalists. At the same time, dozens of journalists are under a travel ban due to the ongoing investigations, imposed by the government.
The arrests are part of a broader campaign against dissent that began in November 2023. During that time, authorities detained Abzas Media executive director Ulvi Hasanli and five employees on similar currency smuggling charges. Independent media outlets, including Toplum TV and Kanal 13, were also targeted. Offices were raided, and staff members were arrested, including Kanal 13 director Aziz Orujov, who faces charges related to unauthorized land use and could face up to three years in prison.
Since the crackdown began, approximately 30 journalists and activists have been arrested on smuggling-related charges. Local human rights organizations reportedly said that more than 300 political prisoners are currently detained in Azerbaijani prisons.
