11:00, 29 November 2011

Theologian Masim Novruzov convicted in Azerbaijan

Masim Novruzov, head of community of “Imam Khomeini” mosque in the settlement of Biulbiulia, was arrested and convicted in Baku.

Masim Damir oglu Novruzov was accused according to clauses 231.1 (tax evasion) and 310 (misappropriating authority of an official, actions connected with unauthorized formal introduction as an official or misappropriating authority of an official entailing significant violation of rights and legitimate interests of citizens or organizations) of the Criminal code of Azerbaijan.

Surakhan district court sentenced Masim Novruzov to two years of custody.

There are no comments from Masim Novruzov himself or his attorneys concerning the charges brought against him but there is an information that the judgment was appealed against in the superior court.

The appeal case against the verdict of the first instance court was referred to judge Gasan Ahmedov, IA “APA” reports.

Masim Novruzov is a relative of some persons arrested this August for suspicion of subversive activities against Azerbaijan, “Interfax-religion” informs.