Azerbaijani oppositionist Ashurov reports about a provocation in IVS

Samir Ashurov, a member of the Popular Front Party of Azerbaijan (PFPA), needed the help of medical officers in an IVS (temporary detention facility), where he had been transferred from a SIZO (pre-trial prison). According to his spouse Nurana Ashurova, the activist believes that he was tricked into taking a potent substance in order to obtain information from him about the activities of the opposition.

The “Caucasian Knot” has reported that on April 19, Samir Ashurov, who was returned from Germany to his homeland on March 29, was detained in Baku on the charge of attacking a man with a knife. On July 20, the oppositionist was also charged with hooliganism with the use of a weapon.

On July 25, Samir Ashurov was transferred to an IVS, and a man was placed in his cell who said that he had also been expelled from Germany, Nurana Ashurova said. According to her, the man treated Samir to a Coca-Cola drink, after which her husband’s condition deteriorated sharply, the “Turan” agency reports.

Samir Ashurov’s cellmate suggested that a potent substance was added to the drink.

Earlier, Samir Ashurov has complained about the pressure of law enforcers and went on a hunger strike after his arrest, which he had to stop because of his health problems.

According to Azerbaijani journalist Afghan Mukhtarly, who lives in Germany, Samir Ashurov fell victim to political repressions.

“Samir Ashurov feared reprisals and fled to Germany. Staying there, he also tried to draw attention to human rights problems in Azerbaijan and actively participated in protest actions, but he was denied asylum,” Afghan Mukhtarly said.