Two Defendants in Gyumri Case to be Released from Custody

Two of the defendants arrested in connection with the events of October 20 in Gyumri—Ruben Mkhitaryan, a lawyer and the coordinator of the “Mer Dzevov” (Our Way) movement in Gyumri, and Narek Ghukasyan, the grandson of Mayor Vardan Ghukasyan’s brother—will be released.

According to their lawyers, the Court of Appeal satisfied the appeals regarding the change of the measure of restraint and decided to lift the detention, immediately releasing the defendants.The lawyers note that the accusation was based on the testimony of only one police officer.

In total, there are 43 defendants in the Gyumri case, 24 of whom remain in custody.

The criminal proceedings were initiated on October 20, following the arrest of Gyumri Mayor Vardan Ghukasyan. Ghukasyan’s supporters had gathered near the City Hall, and as a result of clashes that occurred while he was being transported to Yerevan, a group of individuals was detained.

They have been charged with interfering with the investigation of a criminal case and participating in or inciting mass riots.

Satenik Avetisyan