Official: Armenian-origin gunman stable after Khankendi shooting

A man of Armenian origin who wounded a police officer with a firearm on September 14 has been hospitalised, authorities reported.

According to the Management Union of Medical Territorial Units (TƏBİB), the suspect, identified as Karen Albertovich Avanesyan, born in 1967, was admitted to a medical facility in Khankendi with multiple injuries, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

“The patient underwent surgery and received the necessary diagnostic examinations. His treatment is ongoing, and his condition is currently assessed as satisfactory,” the statement said.

Authorities continue to investigate the incident, which officials describe as a provocation.

Earlier on September 14, Avanesyan left his home and proceeded to a nearby forested area where he had previously concealed a Kalashnikov rifle, four ammunition magazines, and five hand grenades. Armed, he attempted to approach the site of a public event in Khankendi but was detained by police officers.

During the arrest, Avanesyan resisted, throwing three hand grenades and opening fire on police. He sustained gunshot wounds in the ensuing exchange and was taken into custody. One police officer was also injured during the operation.

A criminal case has been initiated jointly by the Prosecutor General’s Office and the State Security Service of Azerbaijan, with investigative and operational measures ongoing.

By Vugar Khalilov