The Ministry of Internal Affairs Issues Statement Regarding Samvel Karapetyan

Today, the Ministry of Internal Affairs issued a statement regarding information circulated in the media suggesting that specific instructions had been given to patrol officers to take actions related to businessman Samvel Karapetyan. The police clarified that their personnel act within the framework of the law in all cases, ensuring public order and documenting violations.

According to the spokesperson for the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Narek Sargsyan, “An article was published today on one of the news websites claiming that '... Patrol officers have been instructed to be particularly vigilant regarding actions related to businessman Samvel Karapetyan. The police have been mandated to monitor all events organized by Karapetyan’s group and document all vehicles arriving at the scene, recording license plates and seeking opportunities for penalties or towing.'”

The Ministry feels it is necessary to clarify that law enforcement officers, including patrol officers, must always be 'vigilant' and are attentive to any individuals committing violations. Furthermore, during ‘... all events organized ...’ the police are also obliged to ensure the safety of citizens and public order. If the driver of a vehicle is found to be under the influence, the vehicle lacks technical inspection or insurance, or if there are parking violations or breaches of advertising regulations on the vehicle, then, naturally, law enforcement officers must and will carry out their legally assigned duties.

Additionally, it should be noted that the drivers of vehicles mentioned in the publication have committed all of the aforementioned violations,” Sargsyan added.