Defense Ministry Official Accused of Stealing Thermal Imaging Devices Worth 160 Million Dram

The investigation initiated by the Anti-Corruption Committee of Armenia, based on information received from the Military Police of the Ministry of Defense, has established that an individual holding the position of Head of Relevant Services at two different military units has misused his official powers to steal thermal imaging devices valued at approximately 160 million Armenian Dram during the year 2024.

Specifically, the investigation revealed that this official has embezzled a total of 37 units of various models of thermal imaging devices, which were under his control and stored in military unit warehouses, each sold for a price significantly lower than its value—ranging from 50,000 to 450,000 Dram—to a resident of Yerevan.

Additionally, it was found that the aforementioned official created false official documents containing misleading information regarding the delivery of the thermal imaging devices.

The official has been charged with embezzlement of especially large amounts of entrusted property and forgery of official documents under Article 256, Part 3, Point 3 (two episodes) and Article 445, Part 1 of the Criminal Code of Armenia. He has been taken into custody as a preventive measure.

Furthermore, the buyer of the thermal imaging devices has also been charged under Article 295, Part 3, Point 2 of the Criminal Code for acquiring and selling property obtained through criminal means.

The preliminary investigation has been completed, and the case materials have been forwarded to the Anti-Corruption Court of Armenia with an indictment.

Given that the stolen thermal imaging devices belong to the Ministry of Defense, citizens are urged to contact the Anti-Corruption Committee if they have acquired thermal imaging devices under suspicious circumstances or have any related information.