Baku: The open court hearing session concerning criminal cases against several citizens of the Republic of Armenia, including Arayik Harutyunyan, Arkadi Gukasyan, Bako Sahakyan, Davit Ishkanyan, David Babayan, and Levon Mnatsakanyan, resumed at the Baku Military Court. These individuals face accusations of crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, and other serious offenses linked to Armenia’s military actions against Azerbaijan.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the session, led by Judge Zeynal Aghayev with the assistance of judges Jamal Ramazanov and Anar Rzayev, ensured that each accused had access to a translator and legal representation. The session included participation from the accused, their legal teams, victims and their representatives, and state prosecutors.
During the session, Levon Mnatsakanyan requested access to previous session protocols, a request granted by the presiding judge with translator assistance. The session also focused on the interview of Manvel Grigoryan, former Armenian deputy defense minister, which was presented as evidence.
Grigoryan’s interview revealed his involvement in crimes within Azerbaijani territories, such as sabotage operations based on Armenian directives. He admitted to inciting violence, stating that young Armenian teachers and teenagers were involved in military activities against Azerbaijan.
Significantly, Grigoryan implicated former Armenian presidents Robert Kocharyan and Serzh Sargsyan in these operations, alleging that military personnel from Armenia were sent to establish units in occupied Azerbaijani territories. He confessed to the killing of Azerbaijanis, village destruction, and looting.
The court also reviewed documents related to military actions and occupations by Armenian forces, including the forced displacement of Azerbaijanis from various districts and the treatment of captured Azerbaijani servicemen and civilians. Photographic evidence accompanied these documents.
The session concluded with plans to continue proceedings on September 26.