Fatal Roof Collapse at Penal Institution No. 12 Claims Prisoner’s Life Amid Broader Concerns Over Azerbaijani Prison Conditions

Prison

On June 1, 2025, a roof collapse at Penal Institution No. 12, located in the Gizildash settlement of Baku’s Garadagh district, caused the death of prisoner Movlam Mustafayev. The incident, which occurred at approximately 13:10 local time, initially injured Mustafayev severely, and he later succumbed to his injuries, according to a statement from the Ministry of Justice.

The roof collapse happened on the residential building designated for inmates. Fortunately, no other prisoners or staff members sustained injuries, the Ministry confirmed. The Garadagh District Prosecutor’s Office is currently investigating the incident, but no official cause has been released. The prisoner’s family has yet to comment on the tragedy.

This event brings renewed attention to longstanding concerns about prison conditions in Azerbaijan. Multiple reports and complaints have highlighted issues related to detention environments, food quality, and prisoners’ rights across the country’s penal system. However, officials from the Penitentiary Service have consistently rejected such criticisms.

The fatal accident at Penal Institution No. 12 adds to the growing scrutiny of Azerbaijan’s prison infrastructure and raises urgent questions about inmate safety. Further details are awaited as the investigation proceeds.