National Security Service Reveals Numerous Cases of Illegal Logging

The National Security Service of Armenia has conducted a comprehensive and effective set of operational-investigative measures, resulting in the acquisition of apparent factual data regarding illegal logging organized by V. P., the forest manager of the "Getashen" forestry of the "Hayantar" State Non-Commercial Organization. As an official, he has misused his official position to facilitate illegal logging operations.

Specifically, for his blatant illegal actions and evident inaction, he received large sums of money as bribes from several citizens performing illegal logging in the Ijevan region of the Tavush province. Additionally, for personal interests, he sometimes colluded with his subordinate forest guards, inciting them to abuse their official powers. In this manner, he permitted various individuals to carry out illegal logging activities through both personal actions and by the forest guards, causing substantial property damage to the legal interests of the state.

In connection with the case, the investigative department of the National Security Service has initiated a criminal case based on the relevant articles of the Armenian Criminal Code. Active measures are being implemented to identify the entire range of individuals involved in the criminal scheme, individualize each of their actions, fully restore the damage incurred to the state, as well as to prevent ongoing environmental violations.

The National Security Service will consistently continue to take necessary measures to prevent, avert, and expose public threats against specific natural resources, urging the population to refrain from illegal actions directed at ensuring environmental safety and from engaging in practices aimed at obtaining illegal income.

Notice: A suspect or accused in an alleged crime is presumed innocent until proven guilty in accordance with the procedures established by the Criminal Procedure Code of Armenia, by a legally binding court verdict.