By Elizabeth Kendal, Special to ASSIST News Service On 18 January Uzbek police arrested Tohar Haydarov (27), took him to a local police station and allegedly pressured him to renounce his faith. When he refused, they reportedly planted drugs in his pocket. The police took Haydarov’s keys, searched his home and reportedly found more drugs. Haydarov was subsequently detained for three days during which it is believed he was beaten and forced to sign papers. Fellow Baptists were not permitted to testify at Haydarov’s trial on 4 March. On 5 March, Haydarov’s father (who lived with Haydarov) was found dead in their home. According to the official report, he died as a result of accidental electrocution. On 9 March, Guliston City Criminal Court sentenced Haydarov to 10 years in prison … Read entire article »