Baku: Over 60 victims, including those injured, displaced, and held captive by Armenian armed forces, have testified in court as the criminal case against several citizens of the Republic of Armenia continues. The accused, including prominent figures such as Arayik Harutyunyan and Arkadi Ghukasyan, are facing charges of crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, and other serious offenses linked to Armenia’s military aggression against Azerbaijan.

According to Azeri-Press news agency, the ongoing hearing at the Baku Military Court is presided over by Judge Zeynal Aghayev, alongside Judges Jamal Ramazanov and Anar Rzayev, with Gunel Samadova as the reserve judge. The court has ensured that each defendant is provided with an interpreter and defense counsel. The session was attended by the accused, their legal representatives, several victims, and state prosecutors.

During the session, Judge Zeynal Aghayev introduced the judicial panel, prosecutors, and interpreters to the victims participating for the first time, outlining their legal rights and obligations. The testimonies presented in court revealed harrowing experiences of hostages, torture, and injuries sustained during military conflicts.

Victim Ahad Aliyev recounted being taken hostage in 1990, enduring severe beatings for several days. Bahman Maharramov testified about his capture in 1991 and escape after 85 days of torture. Other victims, including Safar Aliyev, Firdovsi Guliyev, and Aydin Verdiyev, reported injuries from mine explosions, while Natig Mamedov described an incident in 2021 where a mine detonated under a truck he was driving.

The court also heard from individuals like Shamistan Bayramov and Faig Abishov, who were injured during military operations, and several others who were taken captive, tortured, and subjected to inhumane conditions. These testimonies illustrate the atrocities faced by Azerbaijani citizens during the conflict.

The court proceedings are set to continue, with fifteen defendants of Armenian origin accused of numerous crimes committed during the aggressive war waged by Armenia. These actions were carried out under the leadership of Armenian state officials and armed forces, violating both domestic and international legal norms.