The State Security Service of Azerbaijan has detained the leader of the opposition party, the Azerbaijani Popular Front Party, Ali Karimli, his adviser Mammad Ibrahim, and several activists.
According to the party, searches were conducted in the homes of Karimli and Ibrahim, while contact has been lost with other members.
The party states that the detentions are an act of political pressure and an attempt to completely suppress the opposition.
Azerbaijani government-affiliated media report that the searches are connected to an investigation into the case of the former head of the presidential administration, Ramiz Mehdiyev, who is accused of attempting a state coup.
The opposition says that Karimli has been persecuted by the authorities for years, including through internet blockages and the takeover of his accounts.
The party demands the immediate release of all detainees and calls on international organizations to respond swiftly.