06:59, 1 November 2013

In Baku, five supporters of theologian Talekh Bagirzade detained

In the Sabunchu District of Baku, five supporters of defendant theologian Talekh Bagirzade, who came to the court building to support him, were detained. This was reported by eyewitnesses. Later, three of the detainees were released.

Talekh Bagirzade is well-known for his sharp criticism of the Azerbaijani authorities. The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that on March 31, the theologian was detained on charges with drug possession. Nevertheless, he pleads not guilty.

Yesterday, on October 31, the court session was held. On that day, according to the eyewitnesses, near the court in Baku, the police detained five supporters of the defendant Ramin and Famil Akberov, Vakhid Valekhoglu, and two men named Ali and Khagani. All detainees were brought to the police station of the Sabunchu District. Later, Famil and Ramin Akberov and a man named Khagani were released from the police station, the website "Haqqin.az" reports.

The court hearings scheduled for October 31 were postponed, since advocated of the defendant did not come to court. Meanwhile, Talekh Bagirzade has said that his advocates will not attend the court sessions till the trial becomes open to media, the agency "Turan" reports.