Natig Javadli is an independent journalist with over 35 years of professional experience. Prior to joining the Berlin-based media outlet Meydan TV, he wrote for the daily newspaper Bizim yol. Before leaving the newspaper, he interviewed Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu, who criticized the Azerbaijan State Customs Committee.   

On December 6, 2024, the Baku Main Police Department arrested Javadli on charges of conspiracy to smuggle foreign currency. According to the reports, the law enforcement officers held him overnight at the police station and interrogated him without the presence of his lawyer.

Authorities arrested five other Meydan TV journalists and the Deputy Head of Baku Journalism School on the same charges that day.    

On December 8, 2024, the Khatai District Court ordered Javadli to spend four months in pre-trial detention.