Police detain 17 outside court as Armenian oligarch’s trial resumes in Yerevan

Police in Yerevan detained 17 people on April 17 after clashes broke out outside the Anti-Corruption Court, where the trial of businessman and political figure Samvel Karapetyan is underway.

According to Armenia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs of Armenia, the individuals were taken into custody for failing to comply with lawful police orders, an offense covered under Article 182 of the country’s administrative code, Caliber.Az reports per Armenian media. 

The incident occurred as the court resumed hearings in Karapetyan’s case, which had been suspended on April 15. Supporters of the defendant gathered outside the courthouse in significant numbers, prompting a police presence. Tensions escalated in the courtyard, leading to a scuffle between demonstrators and officers, after which detentions were carried out.

Karapetyan, leader of the “Strong Armenia” party, faces multiple charges, including tax evasion, money laundering, large-scale embezzlement, and public calls to seize power. Two additional defendants are also named in the case.

During the initial hearing earlier this week, the defence successfully petitioned the court to prohibit photography and video recording of the proceedings.

By Sabina Mammadli