The Penitentiary Service denies reports of the beating of Ayhan Israfilov

The Penitentiary Service has denied reports of physical pressure on trade union activist Aykhan Israfilov. The activist's mother had previously stated that the young man was beaten in the prison for protesting against the seizure of his medicines. The Department of Public Relations of the penitentiary service called the allegations of physical pressure on Ayhan Israfilov "unfounded."

"Thus, the convicted Ayhan Israfilov was not subjected to physical and moral pressure and torture. Also, like other prisoners, conditions for meetings with loved ones, opportunities for telephone conversations, and receiving parcels are created in accordance with the procedure and number of times provided for by law. He is provided with high-quality food three times a day, his rights and legitimate interests are protected," the department said.

As for the allegations about the seizure of medicines in Akhan Israfilov's medicines, the Penitentiary Service stated that when the prisoner was admitted to the institution, the doctors of the medical and sanitary unit took the medicines with him for appropriate verification in order to control the intended use. After the procedure was completed, the medicines were returned, according to the penitentiary service.

* Member of the Confederation of trade Unions "Working Platform" A. Israfilov was detained on August 11, 2023 and charged with drug trafficking. He was subsequently sentenced to 3 years in prison. He is recognized by human rights activists as a political prisoner.