Investigators Uncover Robbery Against Elderly Woman

An elderly resident of the Vagashen community in the Gegharkunik region reported an incident that occurred on July 5, 2021. At approximately 12:00 PM on that day, a neighbor allegedly dragged her out of her home into the yard, struck her, and attempted to strangle her, during which he stole her gold earrings and necklace, and inflicted injuries with a knife.

The Investigative Committee of the Republic of Armenia announced that a criminal case has been initiated based on Article 175, Part 2, Point 4 of the RA Criminal Code at the Martuni investigative division of the Gegharkunik regional investigative department. The elderly woman has been recognized as a victim and has been questioned regarding the incident.

During the preliminary investigation, urgent investigative and procedural actions have been undertaken, including taking samples, seizing the clothing worn by both the victim and the suspect at the time of the incident, and questioning about a dozen witnesses. To clarify circumstances of significant importance for the criminal case, forensic, genetic, fiber, and trace evidence examinations have been assigned. Some material evidence has been discovered.

As a result of joint efforts with the police, the resident of the Vagashen community has been arrested on suspicion of committing robbery against the elderly woman. During a personal search, a knife, a balaclava, and a medical mask were found in his possession. The investigation is ongoing.

Measures are being taken to clarify all circumstances of the incident and ensure an objective and comprehensive inquiry.

The suspect is presumed innocent until proven guilty in accordance with the procedure established by the Criminal Procedure Code of the Republic of Armenia, by a legally valid court ruling.