Samvel Babayan accused of money laundering

A new charge has been filed against Samvel Babayan, the former Defence Minister of Nagorno-Karabakh, involved in the case of smuggling of the "Igla" short-range man-portable air defence system to Armenia. This was reported by his advocate.

The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that Samvel Babayan and two other persons involved in the case of smuggling from Georgia of the "Igla" short-range man-portable air defence system (MANPADS) were charged with illegal trafficking in arms and explosive devices. On June 20, Avetis Kalashyan, a General's advocate, reported that the charge of smuggling in arms against Samvel Babayan was lifted.

According to the advocate, Samvel Babayan testified in the case, but pleaded not guilty. Members of the opposition called the General's arrest politically motivated.

Today, "Caucasian Knot" correspondent has been told by Avetis Kalashyan that Samvel Babayan was charged under Part 1 of Article 190 of the Criminal Code of Armenia (legalization of incomes received illegally).

According to the advocate, the charge is not relevant to the case of smuggling of the "Igla" short-range man-portable air defence system. However, the advocate found it difficult to clarify what the new version of the investigation relates to. "The defence requested 10 days to examine the materials of the case. After the examination, it will express its position," said Avetis Kalashyan. He has also added that the former Defence Minister rejects the accusations filed against him.

Full text of the article is available on the Russian page of 24/7 Internet agency ‘Caucasian Knot’.