VIDEO: Attempt to Import Large Quantity of Clothing with Falsified Data into Armenia

The investigation and operational intelligence department of the Armenian State Revenue Committee has uncovered yet another case of economic activity-related crime, as reported by the committee's information and public relations office.

Recently, the department received operational data indicating that a large quantity of clothing was being organized for import from Russia to Armenia by adding falsified data to the documents that serve as the basis for taxation.

Broad operational and investigative measures were developed and undertaken by the committee's investigation and operational intelligence department. It was revealed that approximately 6.5 tons of unused clothing, shoes, and mobile phone accessories were imported into Armenia through a resident transportation company. However, the accompanying documents classified these items as used goods, with significantly lower invoice values, and registered them under the names of 30 different individuals.

Further investigation showed that these individuals were not the actual beneficiaries of the imported cargo; rather, the goods belonged to taxpayers engaged in entrepreneurial activities in Armenia. Attempts were made to evade tax oversight and obligation payments by registering the cargo under various individuals’ names.

A criminal case has been initiated in relation to the apparent crime under the relevant article of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Armenia. The imported goods have been confiscated.

The State Revenue Committee urges taxpayers importing goods from EAEU member states to declare their tax bases honestly and pay the taxes as stipulated by the Tax Code; otherwise, tax oversight measures will be implemented. An investigation is underway.

Measures are being taken to identify the individuals involved in the criminal chain and clarify the extent of the damage caused to the state.

Note: The person suspected or accused of the alleged crime is considered innocent until proven guilty by a court decision that has entered into legal force, in accordance with the Code of Criminal Procedure of the Republic of Armenia.