Armenian 'Arms Baron' Ara Dolarian Arrested in Fresno

Promising actor Ara Dolarian has been arrested in Fresno for illegal weapons sales, money laundering, and conspiracy. This was reported to The Business Journal on Monday by U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott.

The 58-year-old Armenian is suspected of selling billions of dollars worth of explosives, missiles, and firearms to the Nigerian government from Eastern Europe and South Africa.

The man residing in Sofia, Bulgaria, used a company named Dolarian Capital Inc., based in the U.S., for his illegal business. His associates believed he was importing and exporting tea for some time.

It has been revealed that Dolarian has been involved in the international arms trade, selling everything from Soviet T-72 tanks to missile systems.

In February 2015, the federal government seized more than $6 million from Dolarian's accounts. Following that, he was wanted for an extended period by the Federal Bureau of Investigations.

Interestingly, Dolarian's parents were residents of Fresno: his mother, Roza Dolarian, was an activist who fought for peace, while his father, Ara, served as the president of the city's arts council.

Preliminary hearings in Dolarian's case are scheduled for May 30. If convicted on all counts, he faces up to 45 years in prison and a $100 million fine.