Baku: A briefing by the Prosecutor General’s Office has revealed that the results of the investigation into the crash of an AZAL plane on December 25, 2024, will be announced shortly. Nemat Avazov, head of the Investigation Department, confirmed that a criminal case has been initiated in connection with the incident. This briefing also addressed concerns regarding the torture and intentional killing of Azerbaijani citizens in the Russian Federation.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, expert examinations have been conducted in Russia, Kazakhstan, and Azerbaijan to uncover the details surrounding the crash. Avazov mentioned that personnel have been dispatched to Kazakhstan to assist with the ongoing investigations there. The collaborative effort aims to clarify the circumstances of the crash, with results expected soon.

The crash occurred when the plane, en route from Baku to Grozny, went down near Aktau, Kazakhstan. Preliminary reports from Kazakhstan suggested the aircraft lost control after sustaining damage from ground fire near Grozny. An investigative team has been established by Russian authorities, although no conclusive results have been released.

The catastrophic event involved 62 passengers and 5 crew members, with 29 individuals surviving the ordeal. In recognition of their bravery, Azerbaijan’s President posthumously awarded two pilots and a flight navigator the title of National Hero of Azerbaijan. Additionally, two flight navigators received the Bravery (Rashadat) Order for their courageous actions during the crash.