Trial of alleged French spies continues as Martin Ryan testifies in Baku

The trial of Martin Ryan and Azad Mammadli, accused of espionage on behalf of France, continued on April 14 at the Baku Court on Grave Crimes.

The proceedings are part of a high-profile case initiated by the State Security Service of Azerbaijan, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

Martin Ryan – a British national and the director general of Merkorama LLC – responded to questions from his defence lawyer during a hearing presided over by Judge Elmin Rustamov.

When asked why he had established contact with individuals who had introduced themselves as French embassy staff, Ryan said the interaction had been beneficial for his business activities.

“I am a businessman. My line of work required maintaining contact with the embassy. I saw this as a positive development. It allowed me to build a broad network,” he told the court.

In response to a question on how he came to suspect the individuals were intelligence agents, Ryan said he realised this during a conversation with Frédéric Devos.

“The nature of his questions made it clear he was working for the intelligence services. This was also apparent in the behaviour of other individuals who later contacted me. The same applies to the person who maintained contact with Azad. These details are reflected in the investigation materials,” Ryan stated.

Asked why he continued engaging with the individuals after becoming aware of their likely intelligence affiliations, Ryan claimed he aimed to maintain friendly relations with French representatives.

“Having a personal connection with someone does not necessarily mean there is any personal gain involved. I intended to build a friendship and ensure my safety. There was no talk of rank, profit, or financial benefit,” he said.

Ryan also argued that had he reported the matter to Azerbaijani security services, it would have been tantamount to betraying France.

“I didn’t have enough evidence to go to the authorities. But I should have informed the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs. If I had documents, I wouldn’t be under arrest now,” he added.

The next court hearing is scheduled for May 19.

To recall, Ryan and Mammadli were arrested on December 4, 2023. Ryan faces charges under Article 276 of the Criminal Code (espionage). Prosecutors allege he was recruited by agents of the French Directorate-General for External Security (DGSE), who were subsequently expelled from Azerbaijan and declared persona non grata.

Azad Mammadli, a citizen of Azerbaijan, is charged under Article 274 (high treason) in connection with the same case.

By Aghakazim Guliyev