Armenian investigative chief says Azerbaijani soldier who entered Syunik had no intent to kill

YEREVAN — Armenia’s Investigative Committee Chairman Artur Poghosyan said November 3 that an Azerbaijani serviceman who entered the village of Shaki in Syunik Province had become lost in fog and, according to investigators, had not intended to kill civilians.

Speaking to journalists in parliament, Poghosyan said the soldier had been questioned and had provided testimony describing the circumstances and location of the incident. He declined to disclose the full testimony, citing the continuing investigation.

The incident occurred on October 1, when Azerbaijani serviceman Nasimi Musayev entered the home of Shaki resident Ani Avetisyan and discharged his weapon.

Avetisyan suffered serious injuries, while her two children were also subsequently recognized as victims in the criminal proceedings.

Poghosyan said the serviceman remains in detention and announced that a closed parliamentary discussion concerning the case would be held.

The investigator’s assertion that the soldier did not intend to kill has drawn attention because of the reported circumstances, including unlawful entry into a civilian home, gunfire and the injuries sustained by its occupant.

His remarks represent the investigative authority’s assessment rather than a final judicial determination.

The case has heightened questions about border security and the protection of civilians in Syunik, a region central to ongoing discussions concerning Armenian-Azerbaijani relations and regional transportation routes. Further clarification of the incident and the investigation’s findings remains important for determining accountability.