Azerbaijan’s State Security Service (SSS) has detained several Azerbaijani nationals accused of operating abroad under the direction of foreign intelligence services and taking part in activities deemed a threat to national security.
In a statement released today, the SSS said it had gathered intelligence indicating that illegal armed groups composed of Azerbaijani citizens had been formed outside the country. According to the agency, these individuals were being used by foreign services for reconnaissance, sabotage, terrorist activities, and other covert operations.
The investigation identified several suspects who, while abroad, allegedly presented themselves as members of the “criminal underworld” and were involved in organizing the activities of an illegal armed formation. The statement adds that they were also engaged in surveillance targeting officials of a foreign state, alongside other criminal acts.
One of the suspects, Amid Sameddin oglu Mammadov (born 1995), was located overseas, detained during an operational search effort, and extradited to Azerbaijan for questioning.
Two other Azerbaijani citizens – Nurlan Ilham oglu Safarov (born 1997) and Edik Nabi oglu Israfilov (born 1983) – were also arrested and charged in connection with the same case.
All three men are accused under Articles 12.1 and 279.1 of Azerbaijan’s Criminal Code, which cover participation in armed groups operating outside state law. A court has ordered their pre-trial detention.
The SSS said further details will be released as the investigation continues and additional individuals are identified.
