All Fire Outbreaks Extinguished: Ministry of Internal Affairs

Between November 21 and 27, major fires broke out in the forested and grassy areas of Gegharkunik, Tavush, Lori, Shirak, Kotayk, Aragatsotn, and Syunik provinces. Firefighters, committed to their professional duties and mission, immediately began firefighting operations. This information was reported by the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA).

“More than 2,700 rescuers were involved in large-scale operations, including representatives from the Ministry of Environment, Ecological Inspection Service, MIA police units, state governance and local self-government bodies, community residents, 65 main and about 260 auxiliary vehicles, and a Ministry of Defense helicopter, which conducted 109 flights for aerial reconnaissance and firefighting purposes.

An operational headquarters was established under the leadership of Kamo Tsutsulyan, head of the MIA Rescue Service and Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs. The MIA press secretary, Narek Sargsyan, was on-site to communicate with the media, providing operational information, and updates on the prevailing situation were regularly shared on official platforms.

The first report of a large-scale fire was received on November 21. The MIA Rescue Service immediately began firefighting operations to extinguish outbreaks in Martuni, Vardenyats Pass, Zolakar, Lchashen, and other areas. By November 25, firefighters successfully completely isolated the fire in the mentioned areas, preventing the spread of flames to forested areas and residential zones.

Between November 22 and 24, reports were also received regarding fires in the forested areas bordering the town of Navur in Tavush Province and the city of Dilijan. Large-scale firefighting operations were conducted, and the fires recorded in the twists of Dilijan and near the “Mountainous Armenia” health resort were extinguished. The firefighters managed to prevent the fire’s spread towards the resort area and residential buildings. Reports about animals being harmed due to the fires are misinformation.

Unfortunately, on November 26, while performing his official duties, Sergeant Taron Simonian from the rescue service lost his life. Four other firefighters were taken to the medical center, but their lives are not in danger.

During the same period, reports were received regarding fires in grassy and wooded areas of Lori, Shirak, Kotayk, Aragatsotn, and Syunik provinces. All fire outbreaks have been completely extinguished, and the spread of fires towards residential areas, critical infrastructure, and forested sections has been prevented. To avoid potential outbreaks, the MIA Rescue Service continues to maintain control.

During this time, unverified and, in some cases, panic-inducing information was published in the media and on social networks regarding the alleged failure of the rescue service to act operationally, insufficient technology, and lack of situation control. In reality, the rescuers acted professionally and rapidly, in cooperation with the staff of partner organizations. They extinguished the fires over the course of days, prevented further developments, and irreversible damage.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs urges strict adherence to fire safety regulations and vigilance, as any negligence or inattention can have irreversible consequences. In case of fire or smoke, please immediately call 911.