A recently leaked audio recording has sent shockwaves through Azerbaijani society. It allegedly captures police officers from Baku’s Khatai District violently beating, insulting, and humiliating minors. The disturbing content has reignited public anger over police brutality — yet for many, it comes as no surprise. Anyone in Azerbaijan who has had even a single encounter with a police station can recognize the pattern of abuse now exposed by blogger Mehman Huseynov’s viral video.
The most troubling aspect of this case is not only the alleged actions of law enforcement but also the deafening silence from pro-government media outlets. These so-called “independent” media organizations — which often tout themselves as guardians of patriotism and defenders of national interests — have ignored the issue entirely.
In a rule-of-law-based state, such a scandal would likely result in the resignation of the Minister of Internal Affairs. In Azerbaijan, however, it’s being swept under the rug, buried without accountability. Instead, regime-loyal media continues to publish glowing praise about President Ilham Aliyev’s “brilliant foreign policy” and “strategic genius,” turning a blind eye to the violence inflicted on the nation’s children.
The silence of state-aligned media is not just an editorial choice — it is a form of complicity. Ignoring police violence against minors while focusing on regime propaganda demonstrates a broader failure to uphold journalistic integrity or defend human rights.
As public outrage simmers, one key question remains: How many more children must suffer abuse before those responsible are held to account — and before Azerbaijani media dares to report the truth?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pFzxxuXXTro&t=5s
Azərbaycan dili 
English (UK)