Armenian national stands trial in Khankendi for terrorism and attempted murder updated

A preliminary hearing took place in the criminal case involving Karen Avanesyan, a resident of Armenian origin, who faces charges of terrorism and other particularly serious crimes in Khankendi.

According to domestic media, during the session at the Ganja Court for Serious Crimes, Avanesyan’s personal information was reviewed and clarified.

He was provided with legal representation and translation services at the state’s expense.

The court decided to transfer the criminal case for further consideration. The hearing for the case review has been scheduled for December 15.

17:15

A preparatory court session was held in Khankendi regarding the criminal case against Karen Albertovich Avanesyan, an Armenian national accused of terrorism and multiple particularly serious crimes.

According to local media, the session took place today at the Ganja Court for Serious Crimes, presided over by Judge Ilkin Abishov, where Avanesyan’s personal information was formally clarified.

The case stems from a criminal investigation initiated by the Investigative Department of the General Prosecutor’s Office under the relevant articles of the Criminal Code of Azerbaijan. The investigation relates to an act of terrorism carried out on September 14, 2025, in Khankendi involving firearms and explosives. The attack also included the deliberate attempted murder of more than two police officers in connection with terrorism, along with other related criminal acts.

During the investigation, sufficient evidence was established to reasonably suspect that Karen Avanesyan, born in 1967 and a resident of Khankendi of Armenian origin, committed a series of particularly serious crimes.

At the request of the preliminary investigation authorities and the supervising prosecutor, the Khankendi court ruled to place Karen Avanesyan under arrest as a preventive measure.

Based on the evidence collected, Avanesyan has been formally charged under the following provisions of the Azerbaijani Criminal Code:

• Articles 29, 120.2.3; 29, 120.2.4; 29, 120.2.7; 29, 120.2.11 — attempted murder of two or more persons by terrorist means posing a general danger in connection with the performance of official duties; attempted premeditated murder.

• Article 214.2.3 — use of firearms or objects employed as weapons in the commission of terrorism.

• Article 228.1 — illegal acquisition, possession, and carrying of firearms, their components, and ammunition.

• Article 315 — resistance to and use of force against government officials.

By Tamilla Hasanova