Some Detainees Are Minors, Says Human Rights Defender

The results of rapid response visits conducted by the Police departments have been summarized by the Office of the Human Rights Defender. The report states:

“During the rapid response visits, it was found that several individuals were detained on the basis of direct suspicion of obstructing the administration of justice. It was also revealed that among the detainees are minors. During individual conversations with those deprived of freedom, they raised several issues, some of which were resolved through discussions between representatives of the Police and the Human Rights Defender’s representatives.

At the same time, those deprived of freedom expressed their disagreement with the legality of the arrests carried out, including the fact that according to them, actions aimed at interfering with the administration of justice were not undertaken, questioning the legitimacy of their detention.

The defender reiterates that when depriving an individual of freedom, it is essential to strictly adhere to the regulations stipulated by the Criminal Procedure Code of the Republic of Armenia, following the rationale underlying the mentioned institution, and to be guided by the relevant legal positions of the European Court of Human Rights and domestic courts of Armenia, thereby excluding the deprivation of freedom in the absence of grounds.

It is concerning that among the detained individuals there are also minors. Regarding this issue, the Human Rights Defender emphasizes that the deprivation of freedom for each minor in this process should be applied as a last resort and for the shortest period possible, and any actions involving them should consider their age, vulnerability, and developmental needs.

In cases of extreme necessity, when depriving minors of freedom, they should be immediately separated from adults to ensure their physical and psychological safety. Minors should promptly be provided with the opportunity to contact their parents or legal representatives and receive legal assistance.

After receiving written clarifications from the competent authorities regarding the issues raised during the visits, the Office of the Human Rights Defender will publicly address the matters as necessary.”