Murad Muradov*, "Caucasian Knot" journalist, escapes arrest thanks to editorial assignment

At the trial, the defence has presented an editorial assignment to cover the anti-mobilization action in Makhachkala and the photos, which evidence that Murad Muradov, the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent, was doing his reporter work; and this convinced the court to dismiss the case. Other detainees at the action, whose cases were considered by the court today, were placed under arrest.

On September 25, law enforcers detained Muradov and took him away from the venue of the anti-mobilization action held in Makhachkala. His journalistic ID was taken away from him, after which he was detained. His advocate was not allowed into the police station; and policemen demanded from Muradov to sign a protocol on an administrative offence. He refused and was kept at the station until morning. His advocate said that Muradov, who was at the rally on an editorial assignment, was accused of participating in an unsanctioned action.

The decision of the court was influenced by the fact that the court was presented with an editorial assignment, within the framework of which Muradov attended the unauthorized anti-mobilization action. Also, the court was presented with photos, where he, being away from the crowd, was making photos of the event, thereby fulfilling the editorial assignment, his advocate has stated. "Of all the detainees, he is the only one whose case was dismissed," the advocate has added.