Baku: Court hearings are ongoing regarding the criminal case against several Armenian nationals, including Arayik Harutyunyan, Arkadi Ghukasyan, and Bako Sahakyan, who stand accused of committing crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, and acts of terrorism as part of Armenia's military aggression. The Baku Military Court, under Judge Zeynal Aghayev, is examining these allegations with a panel that includes Jamal Ramazanov and Anar Rzayev, supported by reserve judge Gunel Samadova.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the hearings have revealed significant details, including the examination of documents related to the pre-occupation events in Shusha. These documents suggest that Armenian armed forces targeted Shusha and its nearby villages with artillery and rockets, resulting in casualties among Azerbaijanis and substantial damage to infrastructure. This included the intentional destruction of water pipelines and power lines, severely impacting public services and private properties.
The court also reviewed protocols regarding specific violent incidents, such as the Malibayli and Gushchular massacres, which involved civilian casualties. Notably, a protocol detailed the shooting down of a helicopter on January 28, 1992, which resulted in the deaths of all 42 individuals on board, after being targeted by Armenian forces from the village of Karkijahan.
Victims and witnesses have provided testimonies that underscore the struggles faced by the Azerbaijani population during this period. Elkhan Alakbarov recounted the imposition of a curfew in Shusha and the repeated artillery attacks on the city. Other witnesses, such as Sahib Sariyev and Ilham Hasanov, provided accounts of personal losses and the broader impact on the community. They described the destruction of properties and the dire conditions experienced due to the blockade and continuous shelling.
The court proceedings have highlighted the extensive charges against the accused, including the planning and execution of aggressive war, genocide, and terrorism. These charges extend to prominent figures like Robert Sedraki Kocharyan and Serzh Azati Sargsyan, reflecting their alleged roles in orchestrating these acts.
As the hearings continue, victims have urged the court to impose stringent penalties on those found guilty. The next session is scheduled for April 25, where further evidence and testimonies will be reviewed. The case underscores the complex legal and historical issues stemming from the conflict, as the court seeks a resolution within the framework of Azerbaijani law and international legal standards.