Khankandi attack suspect faces serious criminal charges in Azerbaijan's Ganja

On December 15, the Ganja Court for Grave Crimes held a session in the case Karen Hovhannisyan, who allegedly attempted a terrorist act in Azerbaijan's Khankandi.

During proceedings presided over by Judge Natig Aliyev, formal charges were read against Hovhannisyan. The defendant subsequently gave testimony, while the court also heard statements from victims and witnesses. The next hearing is scheduled for December 18, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

Authorities recall that on September 14, Hovhannisyan left his residence and went to a forested area near Khankandi, where he had previously hidden a Kalashnikov rifle with four magazines and five hand grenades. His reported objective was to approach the site of a public event in the city. When police attempted to intervene, Hovhannisyan allegedly resisted with armed force, firing his rifle and throwing three hand grenades. He was wounded and taken into custody during the law enforcement response.

Hovhannisyan faces multiple charges under the Criminal Code, including Articles 29, 120.2.3, 120.2.4, 120.2.7, 120.2.11 — relating to the attempted murder of two or more persons in connection with terrorist acts, carried out in an especially dangerous manner during official duties; Article 214.2.3 — use of firearms and objects as weapons in committing terrorism; Article 228.1 — illegal acquisition, possession, and carrying of firearms, parts, and ammunition; and Article 315 — resisting and using force against government officials.

By Vafa Guliyeva