Azerbaijani arrests in Yekaterinburg reach eight following security operation UPDATED

On June 27, the Leninsky District Court of Yekaterinburg issued a ruling to detain Abbas Azay oghlu Azizov, following his apprehension during a security operation marked by notable harshness from Russian law enforcement.

Acting on a submission from the investigative authorities, the court imposed pre-trial detention on Azizov, set to remain in effect until July 19, Caliber.Az reports  per local media.

This decision increases the tally of Azerbaijani nationals currently held in Yekaterinburg to eight.

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The Leninsky District Court of Yekaterinburg has ordered the detention of a seventh Azerbaijani national, Kamal Gadimali oghlu Safarov, extending a series of custody measures involving Azerbaijani citizens.

In response to a petition submitted by the investigative authorities, the court granted the request and imposed pre-trial detention on Safarov, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

The detention is scheduled to remain in effect until July 19, 2025, inclusive.

On June 27, 2025, Russian law enforcement conducted a large-scale raid in Yekaterinburg targeting a group that included Azerbaijani nationals. During the operation, at least 14 people were detained, among whom 12 were Azerbaijani citizens. Reports indicate that physical force and torture were used against some detainees. Tragically, two Azerbaijani men — the Safarov brothers — died as a result of violent treatment during the raid. The incident sparked outrage in Azerbaijan, prompting calls for thorough investigation and justice. Azerbaijani authorities have initiated a criminal case and are demanding accountability from Russian counterparts.

By Vafa Guliyeva