Allegations of Smuggling Charges and Press Suppression Surrounding ‘Kanal 13’ Case
Published: 27 December 2023 20:39
In the ongoing legal proceedings involving Aziz Orujov, the incarcerated executive director of “Kanal 13” internet television, additional individuals associated with the channel have been implicated in smuggling charges.
Anar Orujov, the founder of “Kanal 13,” revealed that Shamo Eminov, a collaborator with the channel, was arrested on December 22 in the same criminal case, subsequently facing allegations related to smuggling. The Sabail District Court has decided on a 3-month preventive measure for the initial investigation phase.
Anar Orujov expressed concerns over the legal process, citing violations such as delayed notification of Eminov’s arrest to his family and inadequate provisions for legal representation during interrogations. Allegations were made regarding breaches in informing Eminov’s family about his detention, hindering his access to legal counsel, and purported threats during interrogations.
The accusations suggest that Eminov had been shuttling between Azerbaijan and Georgia, allegedly transporting money for “Kanal 13.” Orujov clarified that Eminov’s familial ties to Georgia led to his visits there, primarily to see his parents.
Rufat Muradli, another “Kanal 13” employee, has also undergone investigation and interrogation concerning the same criminal case and is presently in administrative detention.
Anar Orujov voiced apprehensions about potential future investigations targeting their employees and even relatives, presumably aimed at implicating them in the case against Aziz Orujov, indicating an apparent intent to disrupt the channel’s operations.
Despite pressures to cease operations, Anar Orujov remains committed to continuing the channel’s activities.
A source within the Baku Pre-trial Detention Center confirmed Eminov’s arrest.
Aziz Orujov’s legal issues commenced with accusations under Article 188.2 of the Criminal Code related to unauthorized construction on a plot of land in the Sabail district. Subsequent charges were brought forth on December 19 under Article 206.3.2 of the Criminal Code, which Aziz Orujov regarded as baseless and linked to his journalistic endeavors.
This development occurs against a series of journalist detentions in Azerbaijan over the past month, encompassing individuals from various media outlets, highlighting concerns regarding press freedom and journalistic activities within the country.