Human rights defender Rufat Safarov remains in custody until June 3

The pre-trial detention of Azerbaijani human rights activist Rufat Safarov has been extended until June 3, his lawyer Behruz Bayramov told anews.az.

On April 29, the Binagadi District Court reviewed and approved the investigative body's request to prolong Safarov's detention.

"The prosecution argued that the investigation is still ongoing and requested an extension of the detention period. We objected, but the court did not consider our arguments," Bayramov said.

Safarov was arrested on December 3, 2024. He is charged under Articles 178.3.2 (fraud causing significant damage), 127.2.3 (intentional infliction of moderate bodily harm), and 221.1 (hooliganism) of Azerbaijan’s Criminal Code.

Safarov denies the charges and maintains his innocence.