Ganja: The court hearing on the criminal case of Karen Albertovich Avanesyan, an Armenian-origin resident accused of terrorism and other serious crimes in Khankendi, took place, reports APA's local bureau. The session was held at the Ganja Court on Grave Crimes and was presided over by Judge Ilkin Ibishov. During the proceedings, Avanesyan provided his testimony and witnesses for the case were also questioned.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, an employee of the Social Services Agency testified as a witness in the court. Following the testimonies, the state prosecutor made a statement, requesting that Karen Avanesyan be sentenced to 18 years of imprisonment. The court session is scheduled to continue on December 25.

On September 14, Avanesyan left his home and retrieved a previously hidden Kalashnikov assault rifle, four magazines of ammunition, and five grenades from a nearby forest area. He was attempting to approach an event location in Khankendi city when he was detained by police. Avanesyan resisted arrest by throwing three hand grenades and firing the assault rifle, according to the press service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. He was wounded by return fire and subsequently captured.

Evidence collected led to charges against Avanesyan under several articles of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan, including attempted intentional killing in connection with terrorism, terrorism with firearms, illegal acquisition and storage of firearms, and resistance against authority.