Baku:A criminal case has been initiated in Azerbaijan over calls for the forcible seizure of power and incitement to religious hatred, with Turkish citizen Celal Çiftçi declared internationally wanted. Çiftçi, a columnist for 'Sanliurfa Olay', is among those accused of sharing materials on social media that promote these activities.

According to Azeri-Press news agency, the Prosecutor General's Office of Azerbaijan has reviewed information regarding these social media posts, which include AI-generated content. The materials allegedly promote religious radicalism, advocate for a coup, and call for a forcible change in the constitutional order. These actions are said to incite religious hatred and hostility using violence.

Following the Cabinet of Ministers' Decision No. 309, dated September 21, 2026, the Prosecutor General's Office formally launched a criminal case on October 16, 2026. Charges include repeated public calls for the forcible seizure of power, incitement to religious hatred through violence, and dissemination of materials supporting religious extremism. The Investigation Department is handling the preliminary inquiry.

In response to the charges against Çiftçi, Azerbaijan has requested mutual legal assistance from Turkey to conduct necessary investigations. Additional measures are being pursued through international cooperation to address the case comprehensively.

The Prosecutor General's Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the production and dissemination of these materials. They urge the public to maintain religious tolerance and avoid sharing content that incites religious hostility, emphasizing responsible use of social media and adherence to the law.