Captain Accused in Azat Fire Case to Remain in Custody for Another 3 Months

The court has extended the detention of Captain Yegishe Hakobyan, who is accused in the case of the fire at the military barracks in Azat, Gegharkunik Province, by three months. This was reported to Sputnik Armenia by the Judicial Department.

Yegishe Hakobyan is considered one of the key defendants in the case. According to the official version, he attempted to use gasoline to ignite the heater, leading to a fire that resulted in the deaths of 15 servicemen on January 19, 2023.

It is recalled that on January 19, 2023, around 1:30 AM, a fire broke out in the barracks of the engineering-sapper battalion stationed in the Azat village area of Gegharkunik Province. As a result of the fire, 15 died and 7 servicemen sustained injuries.

Immediately after the incident, the commander of the 2nd Army Corps and other high-ranking military officials were dismissed from their positions. A criminal case has been initiated under Article 532, Part 4 of the RA Criminal Code, which pertains to violations of the rules for handling weapons, military equipment, and hazardous materials or devices that lead to the death of two or more persons due to negligence.

A criminal case has also been opened regarding the apparent negligence displayed by officials in complying with fire safety regulations and performing associated functions.

The deputy commander for rear and communal services of the military unit has also been detained. Additionally, legal proceedings have been initiated against the injured officer, referred to as E.H., and the commander of the engineering-sapper battalion, designated as G.M.

Yegishe Hakobyan was detained on March 18, 2023, for two months, and his detention has now been extended.