Azerbaijan: Mamedov' friends doubt official version of his death

Bairam Mamedov, an Azerbaijani activist, whose body was found in the sea near Istanbul, perished in an accident, the local police said. Mamedov's friends have questioned this version.

The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that on May 5, Mamedov's friends reported that the police had found his body at sea. Three versions of his death were considered – a suicide, accident and attempted murder.

Farman Mamedov, Bairam's father, said that his son had not been involved in any social activities for the past six months. "Bairam was busy with his studies. He wanted to continue his education in Europe and was preparing to study in Turkey," he said.

"According to the official police version, Bairam lost his shoe, went into the sea to get it, floundered in water, and then disappeared. But Bairam was a good swimmer. The shoe could not float far away from him; and he could well swim a short distance," said Elgiz Gakhraman, a board member of the "Nida" movement, who also lives in Istanbul.

He said that recently Mamedov behaved in a closed manner, but he does not believe in his suicide. Elgiz has added that Mamedov did not complain about any pressure.

Ulvi Gasanli, another board member of the "Nida" movement, also believes that Mamedov could not commit suicide. "Bairam looked to the future with optimism; he was actively preparing to enter the university ... The version that he swam for his shoes and drowned seems strange. The sea is still cold. Bairam would hardly take risks because of his shoes, even though he is a good swimmer," Mr Gasanli has added.