Armenian minister does not deny police chief’s alleged ties to criminal figure

Armenian Interior Minister Arpine Sargsyan did not refute allegations that newly appointed Police Chief and her deputy Aram Ghazaryan may be related to the late criminal figure Arthur Ghazaryan, known as "Kanakertsi Tui," who was killed in November 2021.

Speaking at a recent press briefing, Sargsyan stated that she would not comment on potential family connections but emphasised that such ties would not affect the performance of the police leadership, Caliber.Az reports citing Armenian media.

She noted that Armenia is a small country, and many citizens may have familial links to various individuals. At the same time, officials have a clear mission: if a person has necessary professional qualities, family ties should not interfere with the fulfilment of official duties, Sargsyan said.

Aram Ghazaryan was officially appointed head of the Armenian police on June 3, replacing former chief Aram Hovhannisyan.

By Sabina Mammadli