Armenia’s Investigative Committee has completed the preliminary investigation in the criminal case involving former Minister of Defense Seyran Ohanyan, former Minister of Environment Artsvik Minasyan, and four other individuals.
According to the committee, in 2021, Ohanyan, who was legally obligated to file asset declarations, failed to disclose ownership of a 10,526-square-meter land plot and buildings located in the Sevan National Park area in Gegharkunik Province. This concealment of particularly large-scale property constituted a breach of official duty.
Between 2010 and 2015, Ohanyan reportedly occupied the state-owned land without legal basis and constructed buildings through subordinates under his control, despite lacking development rights. The market value of this property exceeds the legal threshold for large-scale holdings.
The construction was executed by a company tied to an individual under his official authority. Approximately AMD 58 million in services were provided as bribes in exchange for politically influenced actions, according to the Investigative Committee.
Minasyan, during his tenure, was allegedly aware of the land seizure and unauthorized construction. He is accused of organizing formal tenders to legitimize the developments. Ohanyan purportedly used the name of his driver’s cousin to submit a bid to lease and develop the same land, seeking to obscure his ownership. The tender commission approved the deal for a 25-year term in violation of legal procedures.
Additionally, military police officers from the Ministry of Defense were reportedly involved in guarding the area, receiving over AMD 13 million in state-funded salaries.
Authorities claim the actions disrupted normal government operations and prevented lawful land use.
On June 9, 2025, Armenia’s Prosecutor General submitted two motions to the National Assembly, requesting authorization to launch criminal prosecution against Ohanyan and Minasyan, both members of the eighth parliament. The motions were approved on July 7, 2025.
Ohanyan faces charges including bribery, concealment of property, money laundering, abuse of office, and false declarations. Minasyan is charged with abuse of official authority. The four others face various charges, including bribery and facilitating the legalization of illicit assets.
The case against the six has been separated and forwarded with an indictment to the supervising prosecutor for approval and referral to court for substantive examination.
Note: The accused are presumed innocent until proven guilty by a final court verdict.
