Two Syrian Mercenaries' Detention Extended; They Are in Armenia

Arab nationals, Syrian citizens Muhrrab Muhammad al-Shakher and Youssef Alabet al-Haji, have been in Armenia since the Nagorno-Karabakh war. Their detention period has been extended by two months, as reported by the Investigative Committee in response to a query from "Hetq." In connection with the criminal case regarding the war unleashed by Azerbaijan against Artsakh, the two Syrians are accused of mercenarism, international terrorism, and serious violations of international humanitarian law during armed conflicts.

Within the scope of the case, three more Syrian citizens are being sought. The defense lawyer of Muhrrab al-Shakher and Youssef Alabet al-Haji, Edward Aghajanyan, stated that the detention terms of his clients were extended at the end of December 2020, and he has filed appeals against the decisions of the first-instance courts to the Court of Appeals.

Aghajanyan noted that his clients have not expressed any dissatisfaction regarding their treatment or other circumstances. The Syrians have written an application and requested to hold hearings regarding the extension of their detention in their absence.

During the war unleashed by Azerbaijan against Artsakh, Syrian mercenaries and terrorists also fought on the Azerbaijani side. There are numerous facts supporting this, which have been addressed by both reputable media and official figures.