Former President Robert Kocharyan and Son Sedrak Arrested in Corruption Investigation

YEREVAN — Former Armenian President Robert Kocharyan and his son, Sedrak Kocharyan, have been arrested as part of a criminal investigation involving allegations of corruption, money laundering and abuse of official authority, according to Armenia’s Anti-Corruption Committee.

Robert Kocharyan has been charged with abuse of official authority, money laundering on an especially large scale and receiving a bribe on an especially large scale. He was detained with the intention of seeking his pretrial detention from the court, the committee said.

Sedrak Kocharyan, who was detained as part of the same criminal proceedings, has been charged with money laundering on an especially large scale, as well as aiding abuse of official authority and the receipt of a bribe on an especially large scale.

The Anti-Corruption Committee said searches and other investigative actions had been carried out at several dozen locations as part of the investigation into alleged corruption-related offenses.

Six people have been detained in connection with the case, including the former president, his son and other individuals allegedly involved in the suspected schemes.

Investigators are also examining financial transfers made in Sedrak Kocharyan’s name between 2001 and 2019 totaling approximately 144 billion drams, $309 million, €77 million and 18 million rubles.

Authorities are additionally investigating the circumstances surrounding the acquisition of more than 30 properties in Armenia and abroad belonging to individuals connected to the case and members of their families.

The Anti-Corruption Committee said measures have been taken to freeze the properties in order to prevent their possible transfer or sale.

Robert Kocharyan was later transported by ambulance from the Anti-Corruption Court to a hospital under National Security Service escort after his health reportedly deteriorated.