An Anti-Corruption Committee investigation has revealed that the former mayor of Abovyan, who held office from 2015 to 2021, unlawfully transferred 21 land plots that were not subject to privatization. These areas were designated as public green zones in the city’s general development plan.
According to investigators, the official ignored legal regulations and abused his position to sell these plots to various individuals and companies through sham auctions and direct sales. These actions caused significant harm to the community and resulted in serious consequences due to negligence.
Additionally, the former mayor and a municipal employee created and circulated falsified documents concerning the auctions, including fake participant names and forged signatures. In some cases, auctions were claimed to have taken place with multiple bidders, though in reality, they never occurred.
Based on these findings, the former mayor faces 21 counts under Article 308 (abuse of official powers), 6 counts under Article 314 (official forgery), and 2 counts under Article 196 (causing property damage through negligence) of Armenia’s former Criminal Code.
The involved municipal staff member has also been charged with aiding in 6 counts under Article 308, 6 counts under Article 314, and 2 counts under Article 196.
A total of 49,178,000 drams in damages has been recovered during the investigation phase. The case has now been referred to the Anti-Corruption Court with a formal indictment.
Note: All accused are presumed innocent until proven guilty by a final court verdict under Armenian law.
