Ramin Bayramov is an Azerbaijani journalist. Radio Free Europe described him in 2011 as a "prominent Islamic activist".[1]
On 11 August 2011, he was arrested by Azerbaijani authorities. Police stated that they found a pistol, a hand grenade, and drugs in a search of his home.[1] The following day, the National Security Ministry announced that he was arrested on suspicion of "treason, breach of national security and the incitement of mass unrest". However, these charges were not filed, and he was instead charged with possession of drugs and an illegal firearm.[2] In March, Bayramov was sentenced to eighteen months' imprisonment.[3]
Amnesty International described the charges as "politically motivated" and "trumped up by Azerbaijan’s secular authorities in order to silence [his] coverage of religious issues". The organization designated Bayramov a prisoner of conscience.[2] Human Rights Watch called the charges "spurious".[3] Reporters Without Borders noted its "dismay", stating, "In all likelihood, Ramin Bayramov is the latest victim of the crackdown striking religious circles and pro-Iranian Azerbaijan."[4]
See also edit
References edit
- ^ a b "Azerbaijan Arrests Two Islamic Activists". Radio Free Europe. 12 August 2011. Retrieved 4 July 2012.
- ^ a b "Azerbaijan: Authorities Determined to Silence Dissent to Ensure Successful Eurovision". Amnesty International. 1 May 2012. Retrieved 4 July 2012.
- ^ a b "Azerbaijan: Ensure Detained Journalists Access to Lawyer, Family". Human Rights Watch. 31 March 2012. Retrieved 4 July 2012.
- ^ "Un journaliste en ligne condamné à un an et demi de prison". Reporters Without Borders. 9 March 2012. Retrieved 4 July 2012.
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