Journalist Nargiz Absalamova was detained today in Baku.
She is among those jailed in the recent investigation linked to “AbzasMedia.” Reports indicate that Absalamova is facing allegations of involvement in smuggling. Ibrahim Amiraslanli from the Ministry of Internal Affairs confirmed her detention and stated that investigations are ongoing.
Amidst allegations of smuggling, Absalamova, detained without legal representation at the Police Department of Khatai district, seems to be part of a wider context of targeted actions against independent media in the country. Her prior interrogation was as a witness in the case involving the “AbzasMedia” leadership.
The circumstances surrounding Absalamova’s detention coincided with the arrests of Ulvi Hasanli, the director of “AbzasMedia,” and Sevinj Vagifqizi, its editor-in-chief. Both Hasanli and Vagifqizi are facing similar charges related to smuggling. Ulvi Hasanli has denied the allegations, specifically contesting the reported discovery of 40,000 euros in the office, claiming it was planted there by unknown individuals. They claim the investigations are not transparent and that the arrests are politically charged.
The circumstances surrounding Absalamova’s arrest are coupled with the broader context of recent media-related detentions in Azerbaijan.
