Sumgait Appeal Court leaves PFPA activist behind bars

The Sumgait Appeal Court has dismissed the complaint lodged by Dzhabar Savalan, an activist of the Popular Front Party of Azerbaijan (PFPA), and upheld the decision of the first instance court - to keep him in custody for 2 months.

The Appeal Court refused to release the young man, despite the arguments of the defence that accusations of drug possession were unjustified, and during his detention the militia violated the procedural rules.

Advocate Anar Gasimov said in his comment addressed to the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent that the Appeal Court had failed to take into account that Savalan was not explained his rights after detention; his first evidences were taken without advocates, under psychological pressure, which is a violation of the law.

Besides, the advocate has added, the Appeal Court also failed to recognize that as of today there are no results of the medical and chemical examinations; thus, in fact the only reason for keeping Savalan in custody is the assertion of the prosecution.

The advocate plans to lodge another petition asking to replace the custody for home arrest.

After the Appeal Court had passed its decision, Savalan supporters held an action in front of the building and sang the national anthem of Azerbaijan. However, policemen drove young men away from the courthouse.

The Sumgait Appeal Court refused from comments, saying that "the Court's position is reflected in its decisions."