Baku: The ongoing trial of Anass Derraz, the vice president of the French company SAUR, has reached its next stage as the State Security Service (SSS) of Azerbaijan continues its investigation into charges of large-scale bribery and other criminal offenses. Detained in Azerbaijan, Derraz, a French citizen of Moroccan origin, is facing serious allegations in a case that has captured international attention.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the trial, presided over by Judge Farid Namazov at the Baku Court on Grave Crimes, involved the questioning of Derraz by the public prosecutor. Derraz, an engineer by profession, defended his role as a legal advisor in a case concerning the release of Farhad Ahmadov’s yacht, asserting that he only provided assistance and coordination, rather than participating directly in legal proceedings.
Derraz explained his connection to Farhad Ahmadov, stating that they met through mutual acquaintances and signed a contract for consultation services, not legal assistance. The contract, executed in the United Arab Emirates, led to funds being transferred from Ahmadov’s Swiss account to Derraz’s account in Dubai.
The court heard Derraz’s previous statements from the preliminary investigation, where he detailed his involvement with Alexandre Benalla, the former head of the French Presidential Security Service. Derraz described their plan to have Ahmadov’s yacht, “Luna,” released from seizure and the financial arrangements involved, which included splitting a contract valued at over $6 million between himself and Benalla. Despite the yacht not being released, Derraz retained his fee, in alignment with the contract terms.
The charges against Derraz are part of a broader investigation by Azerbaijan’s SSS, implicating both him and Benalla in receiving substantial bribes to lift sanctions against Ahmadov’s assets. Reports suggest that large sums were transferred to Derraz’s account at Al Hilal Bank and to Benalla’s account at Bank of Africa United Kingdom PLC SC PAR.
Anass Derraz faces charges under Azerbaijan’s Criminal Code, including significant money laundering and large-scale passive bribery. He remains detained in Azerbaijan with a travel restriction imposed, while authorities have also sought an INTERPOL warrant for Alexandre Benalla.
The trial is set to continue with witness testimonies, as the court further examines the complex web of international financial dealings and alleged corruption at the heart of this high-profile case.