The US has expressed concern over the arrest of four journalists and activists in Azerbaijan within a week.

“We are very concerned about the arrest of journalist Ulvi Hasanli, as well as allegations of physical violence against him in prison, journalists Sevinj Vagifgyzy and Aziz Orujov, and civil activist Muhammad Kekalov,” said a US State Department spokesman, calling on Baku to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Let us remind you that the head of Internet television “Channel 13” Aziz Orujov was recently arrested on charges of unauthorized construction. Earlier, Azerbaijani authorities arrested Ulvi Hasanli, Sevinj Vagifgyzy and Magomed Kekalov on charges of illegal import of currency. Hasanli and Vagifgyzy headed Abzas Media, one of the few independent publications remaining in the country, which published investigations into the business of the president’s family and his subordinates.

Azerbaijani authorities have accused the US, German and French embassies of illegally financing Abzas Media. The ban on funding media organizations was implemented by a new law on media, which was criticized by representatives of the country's independent press and international organizations.