Video: NSS Makes Corruption Revelations at the Unified Social Service of the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs

The National Security Service of Armenia's Shirak Regional Department has uncovered numerous instances of corruption within the Unified Social Service of the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs, following persistent anti-corruption efforts in collaboration with the investigative department of the NSS.

The NSS reported that several officials, including civil servants not holding official positions, were involved in bribery and illegal compensation cases.

For instance, H.M., the head of the medical-social expertise division of the Unified Social Service, exploited his position to facilitate the application for a Group III disability without proper medical examination or objective assessments. He received a bribe in exchange for ensuring that the applicant was granted disability status without fulfilling the necessary procedures.

On March 10, 2021, H.M. conducted a redundant examination of the applicant and officially recognized them as a Group III disabled person without appropriate legal grounds.

Furthermore, upon learning about health issues encountered by A.V.'s mother and her financial hardships, H.M. also accepted a significant bribe to provide her with a Group II disability status, enabling her to receive free surgery funded by the state.

According to the arrangement made, on May 26, 2021, A.V. underwent an initial examination. H.M. prepared and endorsed a falsified administrative record, claiming that the outcomes indicated A.V. had a Group II disability.

Another investigation revealed that A.A., the chief specialist of the social support Territorial Division “Gyumri-1,” had been receiving substantial illegal payments from citizens registered in social support programs from 2011 until May 25, 2021, to include them in programs and ensure continuous benefit payments.

Criminal cases have been initiated based on these incidents at the NSS's investigative department, leading to considerable investigative measures. These efforts have identified the individuals involved in corrupt schemes, including both those who offered and accepted bribes, along with their accomplices, who have also confessed.

Four individuals have been arrested in connection with the investigation, and charges have been filed against a total of 16 people due to substantial evidence against them.

The NSS emphasizes its commitment to exposing corruption in various areas of public governance and warns against any unbecoming conduct, urging the public to engage in lawful behavior.

Note: A suspect or accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty under the Criminal Procedure Code of Armenia by a legally binding court decision.