Baku: Another court hearing has been held in the criminal case initiated at the State Security Service (SSS) against Martin Ryan, accused of espionage for France, and Azad Mammadli, charged with treason against the state, APA reports. Witnesses testified during the hearing held at the Baku Court on Grave Crimes, presided over by Judge Elmin Rustamov.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, a witness identified as I.A. stated that he worked as a warehouse keeper at the ‘Bon Accord’ company starting in 1997. Over time, he progressed to become the head of the company, which has been involved in pipe supply for the oil industry since 1999. I.A. recounted how his wife introduced him to Martin Ryan, who was fluent in French and involved in the wine business. Despite initially considering a partnership in the wine business, I.A. ultimately decided against it. However, he purchased two boxes of wine from Ryan.
I.A. explained a subsequent meeting with Martin Ryan and another individual named Z.M., where they discussed the sale of expensive drinks to foreign embassies. Ryan also inquired about any connections I.A. might have with the British Embassy. I.A. clarified that their conversations included discussions about the ‘Bon Accord’ company’s headquarters in France and its activities.
Later, another witness, I.I., shared his experience during a search conducted by SSS officers at an apartment in the Binagadi district, where Azad Mammadli resided. Numerous items, including electronic devices and business cards, were discovered during the search.
The next court hearing is scheduled for February 2. According to the indictment, Martin Ryan is suspected of gathering sensitive information related to Azerbaijan’s military and espionage activities on behalf of France. Ryan is accused of receiving instructions from France’s DGSE and engaging in activities to collect information about Azerbaijan’s weapons, military personnel, and international relations. He was arrested on December 4, 2023, and faces charges under Article 276 (espionage) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Azad Mammadli, an Azerbaijani citizen, is charged with treason under Article 274.