Armenian court extends detention of Gyumri mayor Updated

A court in Yerevan has approved a three-month extension of the pre-trial detention of Gyumri Mayor Vardan Gukasyan, his lawyer Zaruhi Postanjyan told journalists following the hearing, confirming an earlier request by prosecutors.

The judge rejected a defence motion seeking to change the preventive measure, including guarantees offered by three opposition members of parliament, and ruled that Gukasyan should remain in custody, Caliber.Az reports via Armenian media. 

Prosecutors argued that Gukasyan’s release would pose a high risk of further criminal activity and that he could attempt to exert pressure on witnesses and other individuals involved in the corruption case against him.

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Armenian prosecutors have requested a three-month extension of the detention of Gyumri Mayor Vardan Gukasyan, citing ongoing risks associated with his release.

Authorities argue that Gukasyan could potentially commit further crimes or attempt to influence witnesses and others involved in the corruption case for which he is currently under arrest, Caliber.Az reports via Armenian media. 

Gukasyan faces charges under Armenia’s Criminal Code for allegedly receiving a bribe. Separately, the Investigative Committee has launched additional proceedings against him over comments he made advocating closer ties with Russia. These remarks have been classified under the Criminal Code article prohibiting public calls to renounce the sovereignty of the Republic of Armenia.

By Sabina Mammadli