We are concerned by reports that Urunbay Usmonov, a BBC journalist based in Khujand in northern Tajikistan was detained and maltreated by security authorities on 14 June as an alleged member of ‘Hizb-ut-Tahrir’. We have urged the Tajik authorities to clarify the situation as soon as possible.
The UK with EU partners have underlined to the Tajik authorities the importance of media freedom in Tajikistan. We recognise and support the efforts of the Tajik Government in ensuring security and stability in the country, but continue to stress the need for the Tajik authorities to conduct their activities in accordance with their international commitments.
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For more information please contact:

Jamila Sujud
Press and Public Affairs Officer
British Embassy
65 Mirzo Tursunzade Street, Dushanbe
Tel: (992 37) 224 22 21/ 224 14 77
Facsimile: (992 37) 227 17 26

British Embassy in Dushanbe