13 Arrested in Gavar Shootout Case, Investigative Committee Reports

The Investigative Committee has reported that 13 individuals have been arrested in connection with a criminal case involving the murder of two persons and the infliction of gunshot wounds on four others during mass riots marked by violence and property destruction in Gavar.

On April 28, a shootout occurred in Gavar, resulting in two fatalities and several injuries, with victims being transported to a hospital. Among the injured at the city hospital, two sustained injuries from a group of citizens who stormed the medical facility. Governor Gnel Sanosyan stated that over 500 people entered the hospital as a result of the incident, and approximately five injured individuals were transferred to hospitals in Yerevan. The Minister of Health indicated that the lives of some injured persons are in danger.

Gavar Governor Gnel Sanosyan noted that, according to his information, the incident was sparked by a dispute among youths, which escalated into a conflict involving their older acquaintances.

Charges have been brought against 15 individuals, with 13 facing accusations under Article 225, Part 2 of the RA Criminal Code (imposing violence, looting, or arson during mass riots, with a penalty of 3-8 years imprisonment). One person is charged under Article 225, Part 4 (similar penalties apply). An additional individual is facing charges under Articles 225, Part 2 and 34-104, Part 1 (intentional homicide carrying a penalty of 8-15 years imprisonment).

Applications have been submitted to the court for choosing arrest as a measure of restraint for the defendants, and 13 of those requests have been granted. The Investigative Committee also notes that another individual is charged under Article 225, Part 4, and a request has been made to the court for their arrest. Furthermore, a decision has been made to arrest two more individuals, with the execution assigned to the relevant division of the police.