Gagik Voskanyan Sentenced to 18 Years in Baku, Returns to Armenia with Other POWs

Armenian Armed Forces reservist Gagik Voskanyan faced a trial in Baku resulting in an 18-year prison sentence. Despite this, Voskanyan's name later appeared on the roster of Armenian prisoners slated for release and transfer to Armenia. On December 13, he returned to Armenia along with 31 other Armenian prisoners of war (POWs) who were unjustly held in Azerbaijani captivity.

Voskanyan's story dates back to August 16 of this year when the reservist, participating in training camps, went missing from his combat position. Azerbaijan promptly claimed Voskanyan's capture on the same day, detaining him without adhering to proper legal procedures by August 18. Azerbaijan accused Voskanyan of sabotage in Kelbajar, labeling him a 'saboteur.' Armenia's Ministry of Defense vehemently refuted these allegations, dismissing them as unfounded.

Recently, Azerbaijan conducted a trial that led to Voskanyan's 18-year prison sentence.

Reports indicate the Armenian government may execute Voskanyan's sentence within Armenia. The Armenian Report sought confirmation from authorities regarding Voskanyan's potential imprisonment in Armenia, awaiting further updates on this evolving story.