The trial has begun in the criminal case against Martin Ryan, who was arrested on charges of espionage for France, which is being investigated by the State Security Service of Azerbaijan.
According to Report, at the trial in the Baku Court on Grave Crimes, presided over by Judge Elmin Rustamov, the defendant was provided with an interpreter and defense counsel.
At the open court session, attended by representatives of the French and British embassies, the personal data of the accused was verified.
Martin Ryan, a citizen of France and the United Kingdom, was born in 1988, has higher education, and was engaged in entrepreneurial activities in Azerbaijan.
The personal information of Azad Mammadli, who was arrested together with Martin Ryan, has been verified too. Azad Mammadli, born in 1995, worked as a lawyer at the International Bank and in other countries.
Azad Mammadli's lawyer requested to replace detention with house arrest, but the petition was not granted. Martin Ryan's lawyer advocated for an open court session so embassy representatives could observe the proceedings.
Martin Ryan is charged with espionage while Azad Mammadli is charged with treason. The court hearing is scheduled for January 6, 2025.