The Prosecuting Authority Issues Another Notice to the Wives of Gagik and Gurgen Khachatryan to Appear at the NSS

The legal team of the Khachatryan family has issued a statement today, providing a legal assessment of the persecution faced by the family members and relatives of the Khachatryans.

“On April 30, the National Security Service (NSS) issued a notice to the wives of Gagik Khachatryan and Gurgen Khachatryan, summoning them to appear as witnesses in the criminal case under investigation concerning their husbands. They had submitted a written request to the prosecuting authority indicating that should they appear, they would invoke their right not to testify against close relatives as provided by law, asking for this position to be recognized. At the same time, considering the deteriorating epidemic situation in Armenia and the fact that Gurgen Khachatryan's wife is caring for young children, they requested that their absence from the NSS be deemed respectful solely to announce this position. However, late in the evening, it was reported that the prosecuting authority was not satisfied with this request and has issued another notice for the women to appear at the NSS.

We find it crucial to emphasize that these actions are taking place amid the prolonged interrogation of dozens of unrelated individuals, psychological pressure, and a climate of fear and intimidation. People are being arrested without any basis, including drivers. It must be noted that this is a method of exerting pressure, which the prosecuting authority is using in an unfettered and overt manner.”

It is reminded that on April 28, Gurgen Khachatryan, co-founder of the “Galaxy” group of companies and chairman of the board of directors of Ucom, reported that a direct and indirect (including during meetings) demand has been put forth at the level of high-ranking state officials to sell Ucom under public pressure with an unprofitable offer. It was made clear that if he did not agree, he would be accused of committing particularly serious crimes within a short timeframe, leading to arrest, followed by similar actions against his brother, other family members, relatives, close ones, and other individuals connected to them.