Ali Zeynal Reportedly Allowed Only Glass-Barrier Meeting with Family

Ali Zeynal

It has been reported that Ali Zeynal, an employee of the Institute for Democratic Initiatives (IDI) detained in connection with the "Toplum TV case", was only allowed to meet with his family behind a glass barrier at the Baku Investigative Isolator where he is being held.

Ali Zeynal met with his family on October 12, but he was not afforded the opportunity for a confidential meeting. His family told the publication that they believe the reason for this decision is related to the articles that Ali Zeynal published from the isolator.

In earlier articles sent from the isolation facility, Zeynal had disclosed that the conditions of detention for prisoners were severe (or poor) and that bribes were demanded for bringing in medicine. Following the publication of these writings, he was placed in a disciplinary cell several times.

A total of 10 people have had criminal cases initiated against them in the "Toplum TV case," including Ali Zeynal. The charges were initially brought under the article on smuggling but were later replaced with more serious charges. The accused denied all claims and stated that their arrests were politically motivated.