Armenia investigates supporters of prime ministerial candidate Karapetyan

Armenia’s Investigative Committee has opened a criminal case following an incident involving supporters of the “Strong Armenia” party near the Anti-Corruption Court building, according to Armenian media cited by Caliber.Az.

The incident took place on Friday, April 17, and is being investigated on charges of hooliganism committed by a group of individuals, as well as interference in the lawful professional activities of an official, the Investigative Committee said.

As part of the preliminary investigation, 17 individuals have been detained. Authorities noted that all necessary investigative and procedural actions are currently underway.

The incident comes a day after Armenia’s Anti-Corruption Court extended Karapetyan’s house arrest for an additional three months. He has been under house arrest since January 19, 2026. Despite the extension, the court allowed Karapetyan to give interviews while the restrictive measure remains in place.

Karapetyan, who is associated with the “Strong Armenia” political movement, has also declared his candidacy for prime minister.

Earlier, Armenia’s Investigative Committee announced the completion of its investigation into a criminal case involving Samvel Karapetyan, the owner of Electric Networks of Armenia, along with two executives of affiliated companies identified as V. T. and A. Kh.

The case includes multiple charges, including tax evasion, money laundering, large-scale embezzlement, and public calls to seize power.

By Tamilla Hasanova