Azerbaijani court denied all the motions in PFPA activist Melikov case

On June, 13, during a preparatory trial on the case of Dashgyn Melikov, youth activist of the Popular Front Party of Azerbaijan (PFPA), the judge rejected the motions of the defense for both termination of prosecution and putting the activist under house arrest. The defense is going to appeal to ECtHR against unlawful arrest already at this stage, lawyer Asabali Mustafaev declared.  

Earlier, the “Caucasian Knot” reported that Melikov aged 22 was detained in Sumgait on March, 25, for suspicion of coinage offence. Later the charge of illegal purchase and storage of drugs was brought against Melikov. The young man denies the charge and considers that his prosecution is politically motivated.

Members of PFPA think that Melikov is being prosecuted for participation in protest actions and criticism on social networks.

According to Head of PFPA youth committee Abulfaz Gurbanly, last October and November Melikov participated in protest actions in Baku with the demands of dissolution of the Parliament and against fine rise for violation of the regulations of holding demonstrations.

Sumgait municipal police department provides no comment on the process of investigation of Melikov’s case.