Anti-Crime Group Law Project Approved by the National Assembly

The National Assembly of Armenia has approved in the first reading a draft law regarding groups and individuals who carry a criminal subculture, commonly referred to as "thieves in law."

As highlighted by the Minister of Justice of Armenia, Rustam Badasyan, during the presentation of the project, the draft aims to establish criminal liability for conferring, acquiring, or maintaining the highest status in the criminal hierarchy. It also addresses the creation or leadership of groups that embody a criminal subculture, as well as participation or involvement with such groups. Moreover, it specifies that soliciting an individual from these groups or one with a high criminal status with the intention of illegally exploiting their influence for material, non-material benefits, or any other advantage will also be subject to punishment.

Participation in a criminal organization will be punishable by law, with penalties ranging from 4 to 8 years of imprisonment, alongside the confiscation of property, with or without this measure.