Russian law enforcement officials have acted with brutality against Azerbaijani citizens in Yekaterinburg: two killed and dozens subjected to torture
In Russia, there has once again been an outcry and concern over the harsh actions of security forces toward Azerbaijanis in Yekaterinburg. According to official information, during a special operation, horrifying mistreatment was used, resulting in the deaths of two Azerbaijani citizens and physical and psychological injuries to dozens of others. Diplomacy has already intervened in this situation, and Azerbaijani officials are demanding explanations from Russia and increased accountability for widespread human rights violations. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan has issued a firm protest regarding the violence that occurred during the detention in Yekaterinburg on June 27. In its official statement posted on its website, the ministry notes that the FSB operation, which Russian law enforcement officials explained as combating an "ethnic criminal group," actually affected a number of people who simply came under suspicion because of their ethnicity. Preliminary information indicates that the detention was related to an old criminal case— the murder of Azerbaijani citizen Yunis Pashayev, which took place nearly 25 years ago near the "Kaspiy" restaurant owned by the Safarov family. At the same time, shocking testimony from witnesses and human rights activists has emerged in the media. According to journalists, during searches and arrests, Russian security personnel used extremely brutal methods: torturing detainees day and night, hitting their heads against the floor, using metal belts, and even electrocuting them. It is easy to imagine — all without any legal grounds or adherence to proper procedures. It is known that some detainees were forced to undress completely, and chairs and various physical force were used in the presence of women and children, causing outrage not only in Azerbaijan but also among international human rights circles. Reports also suggest that some detainees were warned they would be killed outright or sent into voluntary exile during the war in Ukraine. Official Baku has already condemned the actions of the Russian side: in a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that the incident causes deep concern and requires an immediate and objective investigation. The Deputy Minister stressed that he expects explanations from Russian law enforcement officials and accountability for those responsible. It is also reported that many of the detainees were only three or four years old at the time the case was opened; they managed to avoid arrest thanks to the intervention of human rights organizations and diaspora structures. The court proceedings concerning Azerbaijani civilians are scheduled for June 29 in Yekaterinburg. Another sensitive aspect is the reaction of diplomatic structures. Azerbaijan summoned the Russian chargé d'affaires in Baku to express its protest and present an official note. Meanwhile, work continues in Baku on transporting the bodies of the killed Safarov brothers, who perished during the OMON special operation. Azerbaijani officials are convinced that such actions by Russia undermine trust and deepen the conflict between the two countries. It is important to recall that the events in Yekaterinburg took place amid escalating Russian-Azerbaijani relations after Russia's air defense shot down a plane carrying Azerbaijani citizens in September 2023. The plane was part of a civilian group with noble intentions to assist Ukraine. President Putin refused to issue a public apology, which caused a wave of outrage in Baku. Relations between the two countries, which had been relatively stable, are now in a deep crisis, experiencing periods of confrontation, with significantly reduced mutual trust. What makes this case particularly alarming are the methods used and the scale of violence. This raises questions about Russia’s compliance with international human rights standards and potential targeted repression against citizens of third countries on its controlled territory. Azerbaijani parliamentarians and human rights defenders are demanding an investigation and accountability, and they call on international organizations to monitor the situation and prevent further human rights violations. Overall, the situation reflects polarization and tension in the region, which could lead to further escalation of conflicts and increased confrontation. The incident in Yekaterinburg is one of many illustrations of how difficult it is to maintain a balance between fighting crime and respecting people's rights and freedoms, especially under complex geopolitical conditions.