Investigative Committee Summarizes Criminal Incidents During Recent Protests

The Investigative Committee of Armenia has summarized the ongoing criminal proceedings related to visible criminal manifestations that occurred during protests in Tavush province and other areas of the republic from April 20, 2024.

According to the report, during this period, a total of 30 criminal cases have been initiated in various subdivisions of the Investigative Committee in connection with visible criminal acts committed by participants of the protests. These cases relate to actions such as blocking roads in Tavush province, Yerevan, and other regions, engaging in public hooliganism, deliberate property damage, physical aggression, obstruction of police officers' lawful activities, and other related offenses.

Specifically, the cases involve instances of illegal use of cold weapons, inciting citizens to participate in gatherings, impeding the professional activities of journalists, committing violence against others, public calls to participate in protests with firearms, preparation to seize power through violence, and obtaining or possessing illegal narcotics.

A total of 25 individuals are currently facing public criminal prosecution. Among them:

• 12 individuals are charged under part 1 of Article 297 of the Criminal Code (hooliganism in a group);
• 2 individuals are charged under part 3 of Article 297 for hooliganism involving weapons or prepared objects;
• 2 individuals are charged under part 3 of Article 452 for violent interference in the lawful activities of officials;
• 2 individuals are charged under part 2.3 of Article 330 for public calls to use violence through mass media;
• 2 individuals are charged under part 2 of Article 236 for coercing participation in gatherings through violence or threats;
• 1 individual is charged under part 1 of Article 297 for hooliganism;
• 1 individual is charged under part 2.3 of Article 297 for hooliganism using information or communication technologies;
• 1 individual is charged under part 2.3 of Article 329 for inciting hatred or discrimination through public speech;
• 1 individual is charged under part 1 of Article 334 for illegal possession of firearms;
• 1 individual is charged under part 1 of Article 43-419 for attempting to seize power.

As for the individuals subjected to criminal prosecution, 10 have been detained, 4 are under house arrest, 7 are prohibited from leaving, and 1 is subject to parental supervision. Arrest warrants have been issued for 2 individuals, requiring them to present themselves to the investigative authority.

Investigations are ongoing for 29 of the criminal cases, and one case concerning one individual has been sent to court with an indictment.

Notice: An individual accused of a crime is presumed innocent until proven guilty in accordance with the law, and the court has issued a legally binding judgment.