Baku: Public hearings on the criminal case against several citizens of the Republic of Armenia continued at the Baku Military Court. Those on trial include Arayik Harutyunyan, Arkadi Ghukasyan, and others, charged with committing crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, and acts of terrorism related to Armenia’s military actions. The hearing was presided over by Judge Zeynal Aghayev, with a panel including Jamal Ramazanov and Anar Rzayev.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the court proceedings revealed video footage detailing the occupation of the Shusha district by Armenian armed forces. The footage, presented by the Assistant to the Prosecutor General for Special Assignments Tugay Rahimli, showed the burning and shelling of villages in the Shusha district. It also included Major General Arkady Ter-Tadevosyan’s notes, who led the occupation, and emphasized the secretive planning involving key Armenian military and political figures.

The state prosecutors presented evidence that the Armenian leadership ordered the occupation of Shusha. Video materials screened included the roles of individuals such as Samvel Babayan and Seyran Ohanyan. Former Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan’s remarks on the importance of the Shusha operation were also shown, and Colonel General Gurgen Dalibaltayan’s involvement was highlighted.

The court heard questions from public prosecutors and defense attorneys regarding the video evidence. Accused Arkady Ghukasyan admitted to awarding Vazgen Sargsyan and others for their roles in the occupation. Bako Sahakyan confirmed his involvement in the operation, detailing the command structure and his role during the occupation.

The trial is set to continue on May 1, with charges against 15 Armenian nationals for various crimes, including military aggression and acts of terror against Azerbaijan. The charges encompass a wide range of criminal acts under the Azerbaijani Criminal Code.