Azerbaijan: Transportations disruptions reported ahead of protest in Baku October 19 /update 1

Event

Authorities have announced on Saturday, October 19, the closure of the 28 May and Jafar Jabbarli metro stations in Baku, as well as nearby roads, ahead of a scheduled protest by an opposition group to demand the freedom of assembly. Protesters are set to meet at 15:00 (local time) outside the Baku Central Railway station. Several opposition activists were reportedly arrested ahead of the scheduled protest.

A heightened security has been reported at the protest site. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out. Further transportation disruptions are possible over the coming hours.

Advice

Individuals in and around Baku are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.