Armenian parliament approves detention, prosecution of opposition MP

Armenia’s National Assembly has approved the detention and prosecution of opposition MP Artur Sargsyan, a member of the "Armenia" Faction.

In a vote, 62 MPs supported the motion to detain Sargsyan, with no votes against. The parliament had also unanimously agreed to allow criminal proceedings to be launched against him, Caliber.Az reports, citing Armenian media.

The motions were submitted by Armenia’s Investigative Committee and relate to criminal charges against Sargsyan and other members of the Sacred Struggle movement. The charges include preparation of terrorism and attempted usurpation of power.

According to the authorities, the case is based on materials gathered during an ongoing investigation, including audio recordings obtained through covert surveillance. A court is expected to review the request to remand Sargsyan in custody.

Earlier, the parliament lifted Sargsyan's immunity. 

By Sabina Mammadli