Azerbaijan’s Interior Ministry details Internal Troops’ role in liberation of Shusha

The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Azerbaijan has released previously unknown details about the operation carried out by the Internal Troops in the liberation of Shusha during the Patriotic War, highlighting their exceptional role.

On November 8, 2020, personnel of the Internal Troops engaged in operational tasks in the Hadrut settlement received orders to redirect their movement toward Shusha to carry out a combat mission. Approximately 500 servicemen were involved in the operation, Caliber.Az reports per local media.

In the afternoon, a column of around 30 military vehicles began advancing along mountainous routes through difficult forested terrain. Due to rainy conditions and to maintain concealment from the enemy, all vehicles moved with headlights off.

Around midnight, the column came under mortar fire from opposing forces, resulting in 15 soldiers being wounded. Despite this, the units continued to complete their mission.

By the morning of November 9, at approximately 07:30, the Internal Troops entered Shusha, immediately beginning to fortify defensive positions and carry out other operational tasks. The troops remained on duty in Shusha until October 12, 2023.

Additionally, from November 2 onward, about 350 special forces soldiers of the Internal Troops stationed in Hadrut, operating in coordination with Special Forces units, were engaged in operations in the Shusha direction, demonstrating courage and heroism during the city’s liberation.

The battles for Shusha are recognised as one of the most heroic chapters in Azerbaijan’s military history, with Internal Troops personnel contributing decisively through bravery, determination, and unwavering loyalty to their country.

By Jeyhun Aghazada