Victims and legal heirs testify in trial of Ruben Vardanyan

The Baku Military Court continued hearings on July 29 in the criminal case against Ruben Vardanyan, a citizen of Armenia accused of crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, terrorism, financing of terrorism, and other serious offenses.

According to Report, the hearing was presided over by Judge Zeynal Aghayev, with judges Anar Rzayev and Jamal Ramazanov (reserve judge – Gunel Samadova) also in attendance. The accused was provided with a Russian-language interpreter and represented by a lawyer of his choice.

Before testimonies began, the judge explained the rights and obligations of the victims and their legal heirs participating in the trial for the first time.

Rahim Kalbiyev, the father of the late Isa Kalbiyev, testified that his son was killed during shelling by remnants of the Armenian army and illegal armed groups in the Kalbajar district.

Ilgar Khalilov, father of the deceased Mahammad Khalilov, said his son died in Khojavand during an artillery attack.

Kamran Isgandarli stated he was injured by an artillery shell explosion in Kalbajar, where three people died and seven others were wounded.

Alifandi Farziyev testified about being injured in an explosion in Khojaly.

Elgun Mammadli said he sustained a gunshot wound to the leg and a traumatic brain injury during shelling in Lachin.

Elchin Ismayilov reported being injured by gunfire.

Nadir Rzayev was wounded during shelling in the Aghdara area.

Panah Sadikhov was also injured in Lachin as a result of an artillery attack.

Nurlan Ismayilov testified that he was injured in Lachin, where two people died and two others were wounded.

Alakbar Pashayev sustained a traumatic brain injury in Kalbajar, while Tabriz Mamizada was also wounded in that district.

Hajibaba Guliyev was injured in the right leg in Aghdam.

Other victims who testified about injuries sustained in attacks included Amin Rakhmatzada, Murad Babazada, Jeyhun Guliyev, Elchin Zeynalzada, Ziyafaddin Ramazanov, and Elnur Badalov.

The next court hearing is scheduled for August 5.