A Non-Expropriable Land Plot in Abovyan Park Has Been Sold: Criminal Proceedings Initiated

The Office of the Prosecutor General of Yerevan has investigated the cadastre files related to a land plot located in Abovyan Park, as part of a lawsuit aimed at protecting state (community) interests.

According to the Prosecutor's Office, the investigation revealed that based on a decision by the Yerevan Mayor on February 26, 2002, the land plot in Abovyan Park was allocated to 'Samart' LLC for reconstruction purposes, initially for a term of 15 years. However, a subsequent decision on May 3 of the same year extended the leasing period to 50 years and granted a right of first refusal for purchasing the land.

As per the master plan of Yerevan approved by the Government on December 15, 2005, and the zoning project for the 'Center' district approved by the Yerevan Mayor on November 28, 2007, the mentioned land plot is designated as part of a green area for public use.

City officials of Yerevan, among other violations—including breaches of the aforementioned decisions and Article 60 of the Land Code (regarding areas not subject to expropriation)—have entered false information into official documents. This led to the transfer of a 349.28 square meter plot, designated as communal property and not subject to privatization, to 'Samart' LLC, causing significant harm to the legitimate interests of the state (community).

Given the findings of apparent criminal offenses committed by officials during the investigation, on May 31, 2023, the prosecutor reported the crime to the Anti-Corruption Committee. On June 3, 2023, the Anti-Corruption Committee initiated criminal proceedings under Article 441 (1) of the Criminal Code (abuse of power or authority by an official) and Article 445 (1) regarding official forgery.