The handover operation took place in Agdam district of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

Prior to the release and transfer of the serviceman, ICRC delegates had visited him on several occasions in order to assess his conditions of detention and treatment. The organization had also exchanged family news between the detainee and his relatives.

Acting as a neutral intermediary and in accordance with its mandate, the ICRC facilitated the transfer of the released serviceman at the request of all sides and with their full cooperation. ICRC delegates had visited him before the operation to ensure that he was returning of his own free will.