Rustam Badasyan Visits Abovyan and Sevan Penitentiaries

The Minister of Justice, Rustam Badasyan, accompanied by the head of the Penitentiary Service of the Ministry of Justice, Justice Major General Arthur Goyunyan, visited the Abovyan and Sevan penitentiaries today. The purpose of this visit was to familiarize himself with the conditions of detention for the incarcerated individuals and convicts, assess the quality of food provided under the new supply system implemented in the penitentiaries, and evaluate the adequacy of provisions for the right to health care among other issues.

During the visit, the minister spoke with the individuals held in the penitentiaries, inquired about their concerns, and gathered opinions regarding food quality. He toured various areas including cells, kitchens, living quarters, the gym, the library, and the medical unit, gaining insight into the existing conditions and needs within the penitentiaries.

Incarcerated individuals expressed satisfaction with the quality of food and the conditions of detention. However, the main grievances related to the delays in scheduled court hearings regarding early conditional release from punishment.

In the reception area for deliveries, at the minister's suggestion, a modern X-ray system capable of detecting items of any size and density was tested. A prohibited item was placed in a makeshift hiding spot and was identified and located immediately by the equipment.

It’s worth noting that in 2020, modern security X-ray machines were installed in all 12 penitentiary institutions, along with walkthrough and handheld metal detectors. The technical modernization with contemporary equipment has significantly reduced the incidence of prohibited items, including drugs, from penetrating penitentiary facilities. Additionally, the use of innovative devices in inspection processes has minimized human involvement, thereby contributing to the elimination of corruption risks.

At the conclusion of the visit, Minister Badasyan issued relevant instructions to improve the conditions of detention in the Abovyan and Sevan penitentiaries and to strictly adhere to anti-epidemic rules.