Armenian court orders two-month arrest of Gyumri mayor On bribery charges

The Anti-Corruption Court of Armenia has ordered a two-month arrest for Gyumri Mayor Vardan Ghukasyan, the decision was made by Judge Vardges Sargsyan.

The court reviewed the arrest request throughout the night of Ovtober 20 to 21 and retired to deliberate at dawn, Caliber.Az reports, citing Armenian media outlets.

On the morning of October 20, law enforcement conducted raids at Gyumri City Hall. Ghukasyan and seven others were detained on charges of accepting bribes.

During the operation, supporters of the mayor surrounded the building, and security forces, including “red berets,” were deployed. Despite hours of confrontation and minor clashes, the mayor was taken into custody.

According to investigators, Ghukasyan and the chief city architect allegedly agreed not to demolish an illegal 1,500 sq. m. building, demanding and receiving about $10,000 from the owner, reportedly Sevak Gomtsyan, owner of the Fabrika retail chain.

Meanwhile, the Armenian Investigative Committee has opened a case under the “mass disorder” statute against several participants in the protest supporting Ghukasyan, with over 30 people detained.

By Khagan Isayev