Son of Vardan Ghukasian Arrested

Residents of Gyumri reported that on August 17, 2021, between 11:00 PM and 11:15 PM, former mayor of Gyumri Vardan Ghukasian, along with his son Spartak Ghukasian and three to four men, entered the backyard of a local resident's home to clarify matters involving the resident's grandson.

Based on this complaint, officers from the Criminal Investigation Department of the Kumayri Police Division visited the residence of the former mayor. However, Spartak Ghukasian initially refused to open the door and several hours later contacted the head of the Criminal Investigation Unit of the Kumayri Police, threatening to use violence against him in connection with the officer's performance of his official duties.

Considering that there are legal grounds and motives for initiating a criminal case based on the collected materials, the Shirak Regional Investigative Division of the Investigative Committee of Armenia opened a criminal case under Article 316, Part 1 of the Criminal Code of Armenia. The head of the Criminal Investigation Department has been recognized as a victim and has provided testimony regarding the circumstances of the incident.

Following the urgent investigative and procedural actions taken, and necessary measures conducted in conjunction with the officers of the Armenian police, Spartak Ghukasian was arrested on suspicion of committing violence against a government representative. Based on sufficient evidence, he has been charged under Article 316, Part 1 of the Criminal Code of Armenia.

The pre-trial investigation continues, and measures are being taken to clarify all circumstances of the case, ensuring an objective and comprehensive examination.

Notice: A suspect or accused person is presumed innocent until proven guilty in accordance with the procedure established by the Criminal Procedure Code of Armenia, by a legally binding court decision.