Alesker Mammadli's headaches have worsened

The founder of “Toplum TV,” Alesker Mammadli, who is being held in the Baku pre-trial detention center-1, has been suffering from severe headaches for the third day, and the digestive process has been disrupted, A.Mammadli's wife Gunai Mammadli stated after a telephone conversation with him on July 15. The family is very worried about A.Mammadli.

"Of course, Alesker's health problems are related to the stress, tension he is experiencing, and at the same time, tumors in his throat," G.Mammadli wrote on Facebook. On June 22, Mammadli underwent a medical examination at a private clinic. The results of the biopsy revealed a benign tumor in the right side of his thyroid gland. However, the family believes that the examination was incomplete.

In particular, the larger tumor in the left side of the throat was not biopsied. In addition, important tests were not taken from him, which were suggested by family doctors. The Prison Service could not be reached for comment.

*On March 6-8, 9 employees of “Toplum TV” and its partner organization, the Institute of Democratic Initiatives, were detained. They were accused of smuggling foreign currency. Seven people were arrested and two were placed under police supervision.

The founder of “Toplum TV,” Alesker Mammadli, was also accused of smuggling currency. During a search of his apartment, they allegedly found 7,300 euros. Human rights activists have recognized the defendants in this case as political prisoners, and international organizations have called for their release.