Prosecutors seek extension of Samvel Karapetyan's house arrest

Armenian prosecutors have asked the Anti-Corruption Court to extend by three months the house arrest of billionaire businessman and philanthropist Samvel Karapetyan, who faces criminal charges widely dismissed as baseless and politicallymotivated.

At Wednesday’s hearing, prosecutor Argam Dallakayan argued that Karapetyan could exert influence over certain individuals if released. Defense lawyers had earlier filed a motion to remove Dallakayan from the case and separately urged the court to lift the house arrest, saying it prevented Karapetyan from participating in preparations for his Strong Armenia party’s upcoming congress.

The court said it would prioritize consideration of the detention issue. Karapetyan, who has appeared on Forbes’ billionaire list and is widely known for his charitable work, told the court the case against him was “absurd” and described the indictment as “a pile of papers.”

Dozens of supporters gathered outside the court building to demand his release.