Baku: Court hearings on the criminal case against several Armenian citizens, including Arayik Harutyunyan, Arkadi Ghukasyan, and Bako Sahakyan, continued at the Baku Military Court. These individuals face charges of committing crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, and terrorism, among other allegations stemming from Armenia’s military aggression. The proceedings, presided over by Judge Zeynal Aghayev, involved a comprehensive review of documents and testimonies related to the occupation of Azerbaijani territories by Armenia.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the hearing featured Senior Assistant to the Prosecutor General Vusal Aliyev presenting evidence from the preliminary investigation, including crime scene protocols, photo materials, and testimonies. The investigation dates back to 1988, when the USSR Prosecutor General’s Office initiated a case regarding crimes committed by Armenians in regions like Khojaly and Shusha. Witnesses have implicated various Armenian officials and groups in acts of aggression and enmity against Azerbaijanis.
Witness Artur Abramyan testified about a rally in Karabakh led by figures such as Arkady Manucharov and Zoriy Balayan, where illegal Armenian armed groups were reportedly armed under the direction of Murad Petrosyan and Serzh Sargsyan. Financial support for these groups allegedly came from Yerevan, with Robert Kocharyan facilitating fund distribution. Murad Petrosyan was also accused of orchestrating the destruction of infrastructure, such as the bridge over the Khalfalichay river.
Statements from Samvel Babayan and Yuriy Jahangiryan further implicated Robert Kocharyan in promoting national hatred and organizing illegal armed activities. The court heard from accused individual Arayik Harutyunyan, who acknowledged the involvement of Armenian leaders in the movement within occupied Azerbaijani territories and recounted the forced displacement of Azerbaijanis.
The hearing also explored the testimonies of other accused individuals, such as Lyova Mnatsakanyan, who confirmed knowledge of specific attacks but denied personal involvement. Bako Sahakyan condemned violent actions, while David Ishkhanyan claimed ignorance of certain events until the court proceedings.
As the trial continues, the court will further investigate the charges against 15 Armenian nationals accused of orchestrating military aggression and terror acts against Azerbaijan. The next hearing is scheduled for April 17, as the court seeks to unravel the complex web of allegations involving prominent Armenian figures in crimes against Azerbaijan.