19-year-old queer Azerbaijani Yasin (Ruzgar) Ibadov was stabbed to death late Wednesday in central Baku, per pro-government outlet Qafqazinfo.
Police arrested his uncle, 38-year-old Babak Ibadov, who has a prior criminal record and is suspected of premeditation. While no motive was stated, many believe the killing is linked to Yasin’s sexual orientation.
Yasin had returned from Turkey this summer and recently underwent surgery in Baku.
Activists blasted authorities’ inaction. According to them, by the time police and medics arrived, he was already dead.
The murder follows other anti-LGBT killings in Azerbaijan, including a trans woman in March 2024 and queer journalist Avaz Hafizli, killed by his cousin in 2022.
We extend our deepest condolences and support to his family, friends, and community.
