A court in Stepanakert is trying Karen Avanesyan, one of the few Armenians who remained in Artsakh after the 44-day war. At the hearing held on December 15, the indictment was read out, after which Avanesyan presented his testimony.

The session was presided over by Ilkin Ibishev, chairman of the Ganja Serious Crimes Court.

The court heard testimonies from victims and witnesses, writes Minval.az.

It is noted that Avanesyan was provided with an oral interpreter and lawyers.

Avanesyan is charged with “terrorism and a number of especially grave crimes.”

According to Azerbaijani law enforcement, the 58-year-old Avanesyan allegedly attempted to carry out a “terrorist act” in central Stepanakert on September 14, 2024, during which police officers were injured. The incident reportedly occurred while Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev was in Stepanakert.

The next court hearing in the criminal case is scheduled for December 18.

Avanesyan has been charged under seven articles of Azerbaijan’s Criminal Code.