Term of investigation of Azerbaijani former high ranking officials' case may be prolonged again

The preliminary investigation is due to be over in less than a month. The arrested high ranking officials are former economic development minister Farhad Aliyev, former health minister Ali Insanov, former head of administrative department of President's Office Akif Muradverdiyev, former finance minister Fikret Yusifov, former president of National Academy of Science Eldar Salayev and several other former officials of economic development and health ministries.

The arrest of some of them was commuted. Shaliyev committed suicide.

Adil Ismayilov, lawyer for ex-minister Farhad Aliyev told that no investigative action is conducted on Farhad Aliyev.

"I do not believe the preliminary investigation will end in one month. It is much likely to be prolonged," he said.

Academic Salayev's son Elman Salayev said his father has not been called to the investigation since his punishment was commuted due to his health problems.

Lawyer for Akif Muradverdiyev told that term of the investigation was last prolonged till 22 October. It depends on the process of the investigation whether it will be over or not soon.
The Prosecutor's Office told that preliminary investigation is under way at the Department for Grave Crimes but it did not tell when it will be over.

According to the legislation, the investigation of criminal case against those facing charges of special grave crimes lasts for 12 months.

This term can be prolonged to 18 months depending on the process of investigation, APA reports.