Baku: An open court hearing continued in the criminal case against multiple citizens from the Republic of Armenia, including notable figures such as Arayik Harutyunyan and Arkadi Ghukasyan, among others. These individuals are facing charges related to crimes against peace and humanity, including war crimes and terrorism, amidst a backdrop of Armenia’s military aggression against Azerbaijan.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the hearing took place at the Baku Military Court under the leadership of Judge Zeynal Aghayev. Judges Jamal Ramazanov and Anar Rzayev, with reserve judge Gunel Samadova, ensured that each defendant had access to interpreters and legal representation. The session witnessed the presence of the accused, their legal teams, victims, and state prosecutors.
Victims provided testimony regarding injuries sustained during confrontations with remnants of Armenian armed forces. Orkhan Najafov recounted being injured by artillery fire on September 19, 2023, while countering provocations in the Aghdam region. Similarly, paramedic Barzani Atayev was wounded by a mortar shell explosion while evacuating the injured in the Aghdara district, despite his vehicle bearing a crescent sign.
The court also heard from Ragif Aliyev, who was injured on September 20 during operations against Armenian forces, describing the assault on his vehicle. Karam Mammadov shared a harrowing account of being captured and tortured in 1990 while working to restore a communication line in the Zangilan and Gafan districts.
Additional testimonies revealed the extent of injuries suffered by Azerbaijani servicemen engaged in anti-terror operations. Emin Shahbazov and Senior Lieutenant Eshgin Babazada were both injured by an anti-tank missile in the Aghdara district. Meanwhile, Hilal Hasanov testified about injuries sustained during operations that claimed the lives of fellow servicemen.
The trial, involving fifteen Armenian-origin defendants, is centered on crimes committed during Armenia’s war against Azerbaijan. The charges include genocide, terrorism, and violations of international law, with accusations extending to high-ranking Armenian officials and military leaders. The legal proceedings are set to continue, offering a platform for victims to share their experiences amidst ongoing tensions in the region.