16:00, 19 June 2010

Baku police again disperse "Azadlyg" rally

In the capital of Azerbaijan, policemen have again dispersed a protest action of the oppositional block "Azadlyg" (Freedom), which was held with a demand of the freedom of assembly and democratic character of the forthcoming elections.

The action was planned in front of the Mayoralty of Baku. As reported by the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent, one hour before the rally the police took the area in front of the metro station "Icheri Shekher" under control, not allowing passers-by to stop. However, the oppositionists changed their tactics at the last moment, and at about 3:00 p.m. local time appeared in the Sabir Park, some 200 meters away from the Mayoralty. The police dispersed the rally and detained many protesters.

Fuad Gakhramanly, deputy chair of the Popular Front Party of Azerbaijan (PFPA), informed the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent that 35 persons were detained.

The Sabail District Police Department has explained the dispersal of the rally and detention of its participants by the non-sanctioned character of the action.

Author: Faik Medzhid

Source: CK correspondent