National Police Extradites Former English Teacher to Azerbaijan for Fighting on Russia's Side Against Ukraine

The National Police of Ukraine has successfully extradited a 45-year-old former English teacher to Azerbaijan, where he is facing severe legal consequences that could lead to a prison sentence of up to 15 years. This information was confirmed by the press service of the National Police, which emphasized the gravity of the accusations levied against this individual.

According to law enforcement officials, the man, originally from the city of Aджикабул, signed a contract with the armed forces of the Russian Federation in October 2023. He was subsequently assigned to the so-called 'DNR' 1st Slavyansk Brigade, where he served as an assistant grenade launcher in an assault company. During his time in this brigade, he actively participated in combat operations in the Donetsk region. Notably, he operated under the call signs 'Lev' and 'Rafik,' despite having no prior military experience, as his background is in education, specifically as an English teacher, translator, and guide.

The suspect was apprehended by soldiers of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on June 21, 2024, near the village of Ocheretino. Following his arrest, he was placed in the Lviv pre-trial detention center, where he remained until his extradition.

In response to a request from the General Prosecutor's Office of Azerbaijan, investigators from the Main Investigative Department of the National Police of Ukraine conducted the necessary procedural actions that confirmed the man's participation in illegal armed formations. This evidence served as the basis for the subsequent extradition proceedings.

According to information provided by the State Security Service of Azerbaijan, the man has been formally charged under Articles 12.1 and 279.1 of the Criminal Code of Azerbaijan. These articles stipulate penalties for the creation and participation in illegal armed formations, as well as their financing and support. The sanctions outlined in these articles could result in imprisonment for a term of up to 15 years.

The Azerbaijani authorities have assured that they will uphold the rights of the extradited individual in accordance with international humanitarian law, including the Geneva Conventions and the European Convention on Human Rights. This commitment reflects a serious approach to the legal aspects of the case and an intention to ensure a fair trial for the accused.

This incident highlights the importance of international cooperation in combating terrorism and illegal armed formations, as well as the existence of legal mechanisms to respond to crimes associated with warfare. Such extraditions are a crucial step in maintaining law and order and ensuring justice, as individuals who participate in armed conflicts on the side of aggressors must be held accountable for their actions.