Counterfeit 200 Dram Coins Produced and Circulated; Charges Filed Against 6 Individuals

In the investigations conducted by the Economic Crimes and Smuggling Investigation Department of the RA Investigative Committee, the circumstances surrounding the production of counterfeit currency for the purpose of circulation by a group of individuals have been clarified. This followed investigative and procedural actions as well as operational-search actions carried out by the employees of the National Security Service of Armenia.

According to the factual data obtained during the investigation, three individuals, in preliminary agreement, produced counterfeit currency—specifically, counterfeit coins of 200 drams—at a private residence in Yerevan from March 3 to 21, 2023. Along with several other individuals, they circulated these coins in various locations, including retail outlets and gas stations.

As a result of searches conducted jointly by the relevant divisions of the RA Investigative Committee and the National Security Service, equipment intended for the production of counterfeit currency was discovered and seized, along with both damaged and produced counterfeit 200 dram coins. Additionally, a magazine for a firearm and 24 bullets, molds intended for gold ingots, approximately 155 grams of gold jewelry, and 4 kilograms of silver-like mass were also seized.

Based on the facts gathered, charges have been filed against six individuals for committing acts envisioned by the first part of article 267, section 2 of the RA Criminal Code. The preliminary investigation is ongoing.