20:09, 1 November 2019

In Dagestan, SC upholds arrest of journalist Abdulmumin Gadjiev

A resident of Makhachkala with a poster in support of Abdulmumin Gadjiev. Makhachkala, October 2019. Photo by Patimat Makhmudova for the "Caucasian Knot"

The Supreme Court (SC) of Dagestan has left Dagestani journalist Abdulmumin Gadjiev, charged in a case on financing of terrorism, in custody until November 13. Advocates complained about the ineffectiveness of the investigation.

The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that Abdulmumin Gadjiev, an editor of the religion department of the website "Chernovik" (Rough Draft), has been under arrest since June 18 in the case on financing of terrorism.

Advocate Shamil Magomedov noted that the court did not discuss the possibility of a house arrest of Abdulmumin Gadjiev.

In his final speech, Abdulmumin Gadjiev asked the Supreme Court of Dagestan "not to be afraid and make a fair decision." The journalist also promised the judge the information support if pressure was exerted on him.

According to human rights defenders, the judge motivated the decision by saying that Abdulmumin Gadjiev could avoid the investigation and influence it.

Dagestani journalists hold actions with the demand to release their colleague. On August 22, the Human Rights Centre (HRC) "Memorial" recognized Abdulmumin Gadjiev as a political prisoner.

This article was originally published on the Russian page of 24/7 Internet agency ‘Caucasian Knot’ on November 1, 2019 at 02:26 pm MSK. To access the full text of the article, click here.