Defence demands to free former Armenian MP Grigoryan of embezzlement charge

The charge under the article on embezzlement filed against former Armenian MP Manvel Grigoryan does not correspond to the case materials, the defence states.

The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that in June 2018, Manvel Grigoryan was detained in the case on arms trafficking. On December 21, the court replaced the pre-trial restriction measure with release on bail and freed the defendant from custody. Residents of Echmiadzin, dissatisfied with the release of Manvel Grigoryan, held protest actions. To meet their demands, the Prosecutor's Office challenged the decision of the court. On January 22, the court again took Manvel Grigoryan into custody. However, rights defenders do not believe that the court decision had been influenced by the protests.

During a search of the Manvel Grigoryan's house, law enforcers found firearms. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated that the retired General had embezzled humanitarian aid intended for the army.

Advocate Arsen Mkrtchyan believes Manvel Grigoryan has been again taken under arrest because of the influence of the protests, the media, and foreign grantors. The defender has also criticized Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan for his comments on the release of Manvel Grigoryan.