On 20 June, 2011, Azerbaijan Human Rights Commissioner (Ombudsperson) Elmira Suleymanova sent a letter to the Minister of Internal Affairs, Ramil Usubov, on the physical attack against an American journalist Amanda Erickson and British human rights activist, IRFS representative Celia Davies by unidentified men on the night of 15 June in the area of Yasamal District, says the information released by Ombudsperson’s Office.
The information goes on to say that the ombudsperson requested the Minister to take the issue under control, to find and bring the assailants justice and report the conclusions. Press Council has appealed to the Ministry of Internal Affairs on the physical attack against Amanda Erickson and Celia Davies by unidentified men as well.
BACKGROUND
American journalist Amanda Erickson and British human rights activist, IRFS representative Celia Davies were beaten by unidentified men on the night of 15 June. The incident took place at about 00.20 am, June 16, near the house where Celia Davies and Amanda Ericksson live. Earlier, the girls had noticed four young men who looked like sportsmen watching them. These same four men held down the girls and beat them without explanation. As a result, the girls were seriously injured. Celia Davies’ arm was broken and she needs medical treatment. Erickson and Davies worked with local NGOs and provided training for journalists and civil society activists. Erickson has also worked with the Washington Post and The New York Times.