Armenia's Patrol Service reports 2,288 crimes in first half of 2026

Armenia’s Patrol Service uncovered 2,288 crimes in the first six months of 2026, according to the Interior Ministry Police.

Authorities said intensified measures led to a rise in cases involving drug trafficking and illegal weapons. Drug-related offenses climbed to 1,300, up 80 from the same period last year, while illegal weapons discoveries increased by 35, totaling 132. Incidents involving cold weapons rose by nearly 20%.

Police credited public outreach efforts for a surge in voluntary handover of illegal arms and ammunition. Patrol officers also uncovered cases of assault, hooliganism, theft, bodily harm, vehicle theft and illegal logging.

Forgery cases surged sharply, with 301 incidents compared to 60 last year. Of those, 300 involved counterfeit driver’s licenses.

Efforts to track fugitives also intensified, with 90 wanted individuals located, up from 51 during the first half of 2025.