Clarification from Artsakh Regarding Reports of Violence by Samvel Babayan's Son Against a Citizen

The Artsakh Prosecutor’s Office has issued a clarification concerning reports alleging that Samvel Babayan's son committed acts of violence against Artsakh citizen Artur Osipyan.

The statement notes that, "In recent days, information has circulated on social networks regarding alleged violence inflicted by Samvel Babayan's son and his close relatives against Artsakh citizen Artur Osipyan. Today, an article titled 'Intrigues Surrounding Babayan Continue' was published on the 'past.am' website, in which the author specifically mentioned that a conflict occurred between Samvel Babayan's son and the well-known activist in Artsakh, Artur Osipyan, which reportedly escalated into a brawl. The law enforcement agencies have not yet taken serious measures, presumably awaiting a final decision from Harutyunyan (likely referring to the President of Artsakh)."

To eliminate such baseless comments, we inform you that from the very first day of these rumors circulating in Artsakh, the Prosecutor's Office of the Republic of Artsakh contacted Artur Osipyan, informed him of the existence of such news, and offered him the opportunity to file a complaint if the claims were indeed true.

Artur Osipyan categorically denied the occurrence of violence against him and any involvement in a serious incident, declining to file a complaint. After another publication, Osipyan was once again presented with the opportunity, invited to the Prosecutor's Office, but he again refused, stating that he was currently outside the Republic of Artsakh and could only present himself after returning.

No reports have been made to the Prosecutor’s Office or Police by any physical or legal person regarding the incident mentioned on social media. Additionally, none of the medical institutions operating in Artsakh have reported to law enforcement agencies, including the Prosecutor’s Office, regarding individuals receiving medical help evidencing bodily harm or violence. Criminal proceedings regarding alleged criminal cases can only be initiated in the presence of legal grounds for instituting a criminal case as stipulated by the criminal procedural legislation of the Republic of Artsakh.

As for the alleged expectation of a decision from the President of Artsakh for the law enforcement agencies to respond to the incident, we unequivocally assure that the Prosecutor’s Office of the Republic of Artsakh is not constrained in any manner by the position of executive authorities regarding any particular case. It is not waiting for 'orders' to exercise its constitutional powers and operates in accordance with the legislation in force in the Republic of Artsakh, with a strong sense of responsibility before the citizens of Artsakh, working daily to ensure a higher level of legality in the region.