Alleged perpetrators of cotton field worker poisoning arrested in Azerbaijan

Ten agricultural workers have been arrested in Azerbaijan on charges relating to a series of poisonings which occurred in cotton fields earlier this summer.

Four cases of mass pesticide poisoning occurred in cotton fields throughout Azerbaijan in June this year. More than 200 cotton growers where afflicted, though no deaths were reported.

According to the Prosecutor General’s Office, an investigation revealed that the rules regarding the use of chemical agents against pests and field safety equipment were not followed, which resulted in the mass poisoning.

Charges have been brought against ten agronomists, the head of the plant protection centres, and other responsible individuals.