Large Drug Trafficking Group Uncovered in Armenia

The Investigative Committee of Armenia has revealed a criminal group involved in the illegal trafficking of drugs in particularly large quantities, following extensive investigative and procedural actions undertaken in collaboration with the Drug Enforcement Division of the Police.

Significant details pertinent to the case have been uncovered, including the mechanism of operation and the identities of eight members of the organized group who have been charged. During searches conducted in their residences and ancillary buildings, approximately 15 kg of drugs and psychotropic pills were discovered.

Specifically, it was revealed that a resident of the city of Byureghavan had repeatedly acquired 'Methamphetamine' and 'Buphrenorphine' from an unidentified person and location during June-July 2020, and subsequently sold these substances to a worker from one of the military units of the Ministry of Defense. As a result of extensive investigative actions and operational-search measures undertaken regarding criminal cases initiated under Article 266, part 1 of the Criminal Code of Armenia, new evidence related to the illegal trafficking of narcotics was disclosed.

Investigators have obtained data on a criminal group involved in drug trafficking in various cities of Armenia. The initial findings indicate that five residents of Yerevan, along with other unidentified individuals, illegally acquired various types of narcotics for the purpose of distribution. They, aided by a group of associates, illegally sold these substances in different cities across Armenia.

In connection with this, a new criminal case was initiated in the fourth military investigative department of the Investigative Committee under Article 266, part 2, point 1, and Article 38-266, part 2, point 1, and Article 268, part 1 of the Criminal Code. A decision was made to consolidate both criminal cases into a single proceeding for joint examination.

According to the investigation, four residents of Yerevan, having received an offer to engage in illegal activity involving the acquisition, transportation, storage, and sale of drugs, established an organized group under the supervision of a compatriot. They meticulously planned their activities and clearly defined the roles of each member.

It was determined that drugs obtained from anonymous users on the 'Telegram' platform were pre-packaged and placed in Yerevan and various regions of Armenia. Subsequently, photographs of these locations and the coordinates were sent to the abovementioned users, in exchange for payments of 1000 to 2000 Armenian drams for each photograph.

Continuing their criminal activities, the group members included additional participants to ensure a steady supply of drugs. They routinely acquired various quantities of drugs illegally, which they subsequently sold in the same manner, distributing the revenue amongst the members of the group.

Based on sufficient evidence, seven members of the organized group have been charged under part 3, point 1 of Article 266 of the Criminal Code, while one member faces charges under part 2, point 2 of Article 268. Six of the defendants have been detained, while two have been released on bail.

The pre-trial investigation continues, with measures being taken to identify other individuals involved in illegal drug trafficking, discover the sources of narcotics, and clarify other key circumstances relevant to the case.