Baku: Sabina Aliyeva, the Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman) of the Republic of Azerbaijan, conducted a recent inspection at a temporary detention place and investigation isolator under the State Security Service. This visit was part of the National Preventive Mechanism activities, aimed at overseeing places from which individuals cannot leave freely.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the Ombudsman, accompanied by members of her National Preventive Group on the Prevention of Torture, engaged with numerous accused individuals including R. Vardanyan, A. Arutunyan, A. Ghukasyan, B. Saakyan, and D. Babayan. These interactions were conducted confidentially to listen to their requests and assess the status of their rights on location.

The visit included a medical examination by a doctor from the National Preventive Group. Detainees, such as R. Vardanyan and B. Sahakyan, reported humane treatment since their detention. They noted the absence of discrimination or ill-treatment, and expressed satisfaction with the conditions of their detention, healthcare services, and frequent visits by both the Ombudsman and the International Committee of the Red Cross. The detainees conveyed their appreciation for the oversight visit.

The inspection also focused on the conditions of detention, encompassing personal hygiene, sanitation, healthcare, and nutrition. It was confirmed that detainees’ rights were upheld, and essential services like medical and psychological care, legal assistance, and access to information were available without discrimination. Detainees received legislative documents explaining complaint mechanisms and informative materials on how to contact the Ombudsman via the “916” Call Center.