Azerbaijani Gunfire Damages Homes and Community Structures in Sotk, Injuries Reported: Ombudsman's Office

The Ombudsman’s investigative mission teams have returned from the Gegharkunik region. Representatives of the ombudsman met with residents and leaders of the communities of Norabakh, Kut, Sotk, and Vardenis. In private conversations with the residents, information was received indicating that homes belonging to citizens, adjacent structures, and the community administration building were damaged due to direct gunfire from the Azerbaijani Armed Forces in Sotk. These structures were targeted by Azerbaijani forces or served as direct targets for gunfire.

The information has been confirmed by residents who were evacuated from the community to Vardenis, as well as by administrative leaders from other districts. Photos and videos confirming these circumstances have been submitted to the ombudsman.

Interviews with the citizens also documented issues related to the damage of their property, the abandonment of pets, and deprivation of ownership. Even during the ongoing shelling and artillery fire, individuals have not had the opportunity to return to their homes or evacuate their belongings and pets.

In Verin Shorzha, individuals reported that Azerbaijani armed forces fired at civilian vehicles, causing some of them to catch fire. Community residents indicated that due to the shelling, they were forced to leave behind personal belongings, documents, and pets, being deprived of the opportunity to return to their homes.

The ombudsman’s representatives also visited a civilian medical center in Gegharkunik, where two civilians, including an elderly woman, were treated for injuries sustained due to Azerbaijani actions. The information and evidence collected during the fact-finding mission will be sent to international partners and human rights organizations.