Former Armenian minister's brother faces multiple charges

Armenia’s Investigative Committee has launched a criminal case against Mkrtich Mkrtchyan, the brother of Narek Mkrtchyan, former labor minister and Armenia’s newly appointed ambassador to the United States.

The case involves three counts under Armenia’s Criminal Code, including Article 335(1) (illegal circulation of firearms and ammunition), Article 393(1) (illegal trafficking or sale of narcotics or psychotropic substances) and Article 396(1) (illegal possession of narcotics or psychotropic substances without intent to sell).

According to media reports, Mkrtich Mkrtchyan was arrested late last night in his native village of Parakar after police stopped his Maserati. He attempted to pass a bag to a passenger, who fled the scene and discarded it during a police chase. The bag contained an unregistered firearm, while narcotics were later found in Mkrtchyan’s possession.

Authorities confirmed one arrest and said a preliminary investigation is underway. Mkrtchyan is currently being held in custody in the town of Etchmiadzin. The Investigative Committee has pledged to release additional details later.