Detained Tajik Researcher Appears On TV

Aleksandr Sodikov, an independent researcher detained June 16 by Tajik security authorities in the eastern province of Gorno-Badakhshan, appeared on television describing his movements prior to his arrest. The video, broadcast by local state television on June 18, shows Sodikov giving a statement to the State Committee for National Security. Sodikov, who had flown to Tajikistan from his home in Canada, said he was detained in Khorugh after meeting with Alim Sherzamonov, one of the leaders of deadly antipolice protests that broke out in the city in May. Sodikov's television appearance came amid numerous statements by international rights groups expressing concern over his detention.(From Gorno-Badakhshan state regional television)