In the framework of the criminal case investigated in the proceeding of Stepanavan Investigative Division of Lori Regional Investigative Department of the RA Investigative Committee investigatory actions of great volume are conducted to find the real volume of apparent abuses recorded in Stepanavan Territorial Agency of Social Assistance, to identify those related to them. Through investigation actual data were obtained on inflicting damage of 587.160.000 million AMD to the state.

In the result of measures taken through preliminary investigation it was found out that the abuses recorded in Stepanavan Territorial Agency of Social Assistance have been long-lasting – from 2013 to June, 2018, the mechanism was clarified.  

Particularly, false information about several socially insecure people was introduced to computer base of Stepanavan Territorial Agency, their names were involved in beneficiaries' lists, illegal benefits were formulated and the money was squandered.  

Pursuant to data obtained through investigation, while committing the mentioned apparent swindling the employees of Stepanavan Territorial Agency cooperated with the employees of the post office that serves the mentioned area.

Through investigation of the criminal case sufficient data were obtained on 9 people's relation to the abuses. Charges were pressed against them according to the Point 1 of the Part 3 of the Article 178 and the Part 2 of the Article 325 of RA Criminal Code. 6 of them are employees of Stepanavan Territorial Agency of Social Assistance, 3 of them are employees of «Haypost» CJSC.

Signature not to leave was chosen as a pretrial measure against 7 defendants. On July 25 search was declared against the head of Stepanavan Territorial Agency of Social Assistance A. Gharakeshishyan as well as the first-class specialist and detention was chosen as a pretrial measure against them.

Measures are taken within the criminal case to restore the damage caused to the state, as well. As of July 30, 27.378.000 AMD was restored within the mentioned criminal case by the defendants.

Preliminary investigation is under way.

Note; Everyone charged with alleged crime offence shall be presumed innocent until proved guilty according to law.