Law enforcement officials in Yekaterinburg conducted raids targeting Russian citizens of Azerbaijani origin "as part of ongoing investigations into historical criminal cases," according to local news outlet E1.
During the operation, one primary suspect reportedly suffered a fatal medical emergency when authorities approached him. A source close to the deceased stated: "He suddenly felt unwell, clutching his chest. Emergency services were called, and attempts were made to resuscitate him, but they were unsuccessful. He was an older man."
Azerbaijani news sources indicated that FSB operatives targeted residences linked to the Safarov family—Russian nationals originally from Azerbaijan. Family members claim two brothers, Huseyn and Ziyaddin, were killed, with eight others injured following physical altercations. The deceased operated a restaurant business, including the establishment "Caspiy" in Yekaterinburg.
Unverified reports suggest the operation may be connected to the 2001 killing of a man from Azerbaijan’s Aghdam district named Yunis.
The case falls under the jurisdiction of a specialized investigative unit handling high-profile historical crimes. Regional law enforcement agencies confirmed ongoing "investigative measures" related to "multiple past offenses" but provided no further details.
Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry has called for a thorough inquiry into the FSB operation, confirming nine detentions and acknowledging casualties without elaboration: "We urge Russian authorities to promptly investigate this incident and ensure those responsible for this unjustifiable violence face legal consequences," the ministry stated.