Former Head of National Security Ministry of Nakhchivan Sentenced to 14 Years

The Military Court of Grave Crimes of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic (NAR) announced the verdict on the former Minister of National Security of the region Veli Aleskerov.

The prosecutor asked to sentence the disgraced minister to 14 years and three months in prison.

The court appointed a prison sentence for a period of 14 years, finding him guilty of misappropriation, abuse of office and illegal wiretapping, Turan was told by his lawyer Vugar Hasayev.

"This is an unjust, illegal and godless sentence," said the lawyer, adding that the verdict will be appealed.

Recall that Aleskerov for 15 years headed the National Security Ministry of Nakhchivan. He was suddenly dismissed in December 2015. Shortly thereafter a criminal case was filed against him on charges of misappropriation, misuse and abuse of power. After being under arrest for a while, Aleskerov was released under house arrest, but was arrested again after he told the press about his innocence and torture during his arrest. According to preliminary investigation results, Aleskerov has been nominated another charge - of illegal wiretapping. The trial is held behind closed doors.   -06B-