On 23 November, the Sughd province law enforcement authorities in Asht district arrested a 50-year-old Makhmadyusuf Ismailov, correspondent of a private newspaper Nuri Zindagi (Ray of Life). The fact of arrest was publicly reported only on 13 December.
The journalist is suspected in crimes specified in Article 135 and 136 of the Tajik Criminal Code (libel and insult contained in public statements or in mass media) and Article 250 (extortion).

Observers say that Ismailov’s arrest is related to a publication in the Istiklol weekly, which reveals misconduct of law enforcement officers and the absence of justice in Ast district.

Juma Mirzo, editor of Nuri Zindagi has confirmed the fact of arrest of his correspondent. The editor says that the Ast district prosecutor sent an official letter requesting copies of all articles, which Ismailov is the author of.

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