Citizen Prepares to Disrupt September 21 Event with Explosive Device: Investigative Committee

Charges have been filed for preparing to commit hooliganism using an explosive device during a celebratory event on September 21 at Republic Square, as reported by the Investigative Committee of Armenia.

According to the findings of urgent investigative and other procedural actions carried out by the Malatia-Sebastia administrative district investigative division of the Yerevan city investigative department, substantial details have emerged regarding the incident of preparing hooliganism through the use of an explosive device during the ceremonial gathering dedicated to the Independence Day of Armenia, expected to attract numerous citizens.

As the investigation revealed, a 1991-born resident of Yerevan, being aware of the expected large attendance at the ceremony on September 21 at Republic Square, had prepared to commit actions that would grossly disrupt public order, namely, hooliganism, by displaying an open disdain toward society. In an effort to carry out his intent, he had previously acquired and concealed six units of an explosive device known as "Articul N SP1007 pyrotechnic connection," weighing 3.5 grams each, along with a fuse and associated stones, then proceeded to the event location at Republic Square with the aim of causing panic, anxiety, and unrest among the attendees, thereby forcing them to vacate the area. However, he was unable to complete his criminal act due to unforeseen circumstances, as he was apprehended by police on suspicion of illegally carrying weapons, ammunition, explosives, or explosive devices.

Given that the prepared materials evidently constitute legal grounds for initiating a criminal case, a criminal case has been initiated at the Malatia division of the police, which has been forwarded to the Malatia-Sebastia administrative district investigative division of the Investigative Committee of Armenia for further investigation.

Based on a combination of sufficient evidence gathered in the case, the resident of Yerevan has been charged under Part 4 of Article 258 of the Criminal Code of Armenia. A motion has been submitted to the court requesting his detention as a preventive measure.

The pre-trial investigation is ongoing, and measures are being taken to clarify all circumstances of the incident and ensure an objective and comprehensive examination.

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