Even though Abil Ağaseferov, the Deputy Chief Executive of Qabala District of Azerbaijan, denied the information that a group of Azerbaijanis had attempted to cross into the Armenian side, Eshan Zahidov, deputy Spokesperson of the Pres Service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Azerbaijan, has confirmed this fact, according to Minval.az news agency of the country.

“On February 27, 25 residents—including young children—of Qabala District entered Mirbaşirli village in Ağdam District at night, [and] informed that unless their imprisoned relatives are released, they will cross into the Armenian side,” Zahidov told the local media. “This group of people was detained and handed over to law enforcement.

“They took statements from each of them and spoke with them at the police station. They were sent back to Qabala District.

“At present, an investigation is underway, depending on which a legal assessment will be given.”