Artsakh president questioned for fourth time in two weeks

Former President of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) Samvel Shahramanyan was summoned for questioning today by Armenia's Investigative Committee, marking his fourth interrogation in the past two weeks. His lawyer Roman Yeritsyan stated that the inquiries are part of multiple ongoing investigations launched following the mass displacement of Artsakh’s population to Armenia after 19 September 2023.

Yeritsyan confirmed that Shahramanyan has consistently complied with summons and is currently involved in three separate cases as a witness. The latest investigation concerns alleged military negligence and the surrender of weapons to Azeri forces during the 2023 hostilities. Specifics remain confidential due to the sensitivity of the pre-trial process.

Media reports suggest the investigation may have been triggered by public statements made by former Artsakh Security Council Secretary Samvel Babayan. Yeritsyan emphasized that Shahramanyan has not been charged and no accusatory questions have been raised during the interrogations.

The lawyer expressed concern over the timing, noting the probe began in late 2023 but intensified only recently, coinciding with the expiration of Shahramanyan’s presidential term and pending elections for Artsakh’s next leader. He added that the Investigative Committee described the case as having a "historical dimension", aimed at establishing a factual record of events.

The next interrogation is scheduled for June 6. Yeritsyan also clarified that Shahramanyan has no connection to General Kamo Jalavyan in the case.