Baku: Public hearings continue at the Baku Military Court regarding the criminal case against numerous Armenian nationals accused of committing a range of crimes during Armenia's military aggression against Azerbaijan. The accused, including notable figures such as Arayik Harutyunyan, Arkadi Ghukasyan, and Bako Sahakyan, face charges related to crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, genocide, and terrorism, among others.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the proceedings are presided over by Judge Zeynal Aghayev, with a panel including Jamal Ramazanov and Anar Rzayev. The accused have access to interpreters and defense attorneys, while victims, their representatives, and prosecutors are also present. The hearings have focused on testimonies regarding atrocities committed in the Kalbajar district, particularly the Bashlibel village, which suffered severely during the conflict.
Victim Elshad Alishov recounted the harrowing experience of fleeing Bashlibel with his family via tunnel, only to be attacked by Armenian forces. He described how his mother was wounded in the leg and his sister in the mouth during the assault. Despite managing to save his mother, many relatives were left trapped. Additional testimony from Elshad Azizov detailed how Armenian troops looted homes, seized livestock, and killed 12 people in the village, forcing civilians to hide in mountain villages until they could escape.
The court also heard from Habil Alasgarov, who described the brutal assault on April 5, when Armenian troops stormed Bashlibel, looting homes and killing civilians. Alasgarov testified about the use of tear gas to force villagers from their hiding places. He reported that survivors faced dire conditions, lacking food and water while hiding in caves, and were forced to risk their lives for sustenance.
Further testimonies revealed the extent of the violence, with witnesses recounting the killing of civilians, the use of foreign mercenaries, and the systematic ambushes by Armenian forces. Victims noted the strategic occupation of escape routes, such as the Murov mountain pass, and described the severe conditions faced during their flight from conflict zones.
The hearings are set to continue, with significant evidence presented against the accused, who are charged with leading and participating in military aggression and terror against Azerbaijan. The trial highlights the severe allegations of war crimes and violations of international law committed during the conflict.