Today Azerbaijan marks the 108th anniversary of the founding of its police force and celebrates the professional holiday.
Police bodies established on July 2, 1918, during the period of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, have played a significant role over the past 108 years in strengthening statehood, protecting public order, combating crime, and ensuring the security of citizens.
The reforms implemented by National Leader Heydar Aliyev were of great importance in the development of internal affairs bodies. By a decree signed in 1998, July 2 is marked annually as Azerbaijan Police Day.
Azerbaijan police demonstrated high professionalism and dedication during the First Karabakh War, the 44-day Patriotic War, and the 2023 counter-terrorism operations. Thousands of police officers and servicemen of the Internal Troops were killed and wounded during the wars and service, and hundreds of colleagues were recognized as worthy of state awards, including the title of National Hero and "Hero of the Patriotic War."
Under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, the material and technical base of internal affairs bodies has been strengthened, the combat capability of the Internal Troops has been increased, international cooperation has been expanded, and consistent reforms have been implemented in the law enforcement system.
Currently, Azerbaijan police continue to serve tirelessly throughout the country, including in liberated territories, ensuring public order and security, supporting the implementation of the Great Return Program, and maintaining stability in Karabakh and East Zangezur.