Baku, August 28, 2025 — Another arrest has been made in the high-profile Meydan TV case. Photojournalist Ahmed Mukhtar was detained as part of the ongoing investigation, and a court today approved his pre-trial arrest, according to Oxu.Az.
Expanding List of Detainees
Mukhtar’s arrest adds to a growing list of journalists and media workers targeted under the case. Since December 2024, authorities have detained Ramin Deko (Jabrayilzade), Aynur Elgyunesh (Ganbarova), Aytaj Tapdyg (Ahmedova), Natig Javadli, Hayala Aghayeva, Ulvi Tahirov, and Aysel Umudova — all of whom remain in custody.
In February, further arrests included Shamshad Agha, editor-in-chief of Arqument.az, along with journalists Fatima Movlamli and Nurlan Gahramanli (Libre). In March, journalist Ulviya Ali (Guliyeva) was also placed under pre-trial detention.
Criminal Charges
The charges revolve around Article 206.3.2 of Azerbaijan’s Criminal Code — smuggling committed by a group with prior conspiracy — along with seven additional counts. Authorities have not released full details of the alleged offenses, but human rights advocates say the sweeping arrests point to a broader crackdown on independent media.
Broader Context
Meydan TV, an independent media outlet, has long faced scrutiny from Azerbaijani authorities. International organizations have repeatedly raised concerns about media freedom and the prosecution of journalists in connection with the case.
