JOURNALIST WHO WAS HARASSED IN NAKHCHIVAN GIVES STATEMENT

The Institute for Reporters' Freedom and Safety Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic correspondent Hakimeldostu Mehdiyev, who was physically harassed while fulfilling his professional duty on 31 January, went to the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic Ministry of Interior and expressed concern about the proceedings into the investigation into his harassment.

“The investigator received me and said that the investigation is being conducted,” said H. Mehdiyev. “I made another statement in connection with the incident. However, they did not give any information regarding whereabouts of Ismayil Ismayilov, who hit me with an ashtray.”

H. Mehdiyev noted that he has some health problems due to the beatings.  He has been examined by a doctor; although the doctors said that he does have any serious health problems, he has severe headaches and hearing problems in his right ear, according to Mehdiyev.
 
On 31 January, at approximately 10:00 a.m., the Institute for Reporters' Freedom and Safety Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic correspondent Hakimeldostu Mehdiyev was beaten by someone named Ismayil Ismayilov during a gathering held by opposition parties to mark 125th birthday of Mammad Amin Rasulzade. I. Ismayilov insulted H. Mehdiyev using inappropriate language. Then that he hit H. Mehdiyev, who was filming the event, in the face with a ceramic ashtray. As a result, Hakimeldostu Mehdiyev sustained injuries under his left eye.