Battalion Commander Embezzles Diesel Fuel, Body Armor, and Military Uniforms

The investigation initiated by the Anti-Corruption Committee of Armenia based on materials received from the Military Police of the Ministry of Defense has revealed that M. M., while serving as the commander of a battalion in one of the military units of the Ministry of Defense, misappropriated property worth a total of approximately 4 million AMD by using his official powers and influence.

Specifically, it has been established that from October 2022 to January 2023, M. M. embezzled 1,200 liters of diesel fuel meant for the military vehicles of his battalion, amounting to over 500,000 AMD. The official transferred the stolen diesel fuel in parts using his service vehicle, dispatching it to K. S., the commander of the supply platoon under his direct command, instructing him to sell it and hand over the proceeds to him.

Additionally, K. S., intending to assist his superior in the theft, transferred and stored other embezzled military property—including military uniforms, body armor, sleeping bags, raincoats, protective gear, and various military accessories worth approximately 3.5 million AMD—in a garage he temporarily acquired for this purpose. These items were not issued to military personnel and were managed at the discretion of battalion commander M. M.; however, on August 24, 2023, they were discovered and seized during a search conducted by an investigator from the Anti-Corruption Committee.

Criminal charges have been filed against M. M. under part 2, points 2 and 3 of Article 256 of the Criminal Code of Armenia (on two counts), and against K. S. under the same article sections for his assistance. The pre-trial investigation has concluded. The prosecutor has approved the indictment, and the case materials have been sent to court for substantive review.