In the result of investigatory actions conducted in the framework of the criminal case investigated in Syuniq Regional Investigative Department of the RA Investigative Committee a number of circumstances of deforestation committed at the section N 5 of “Chakaten forestry” were found, the circle of persons having committed the apparent crime is specified. On the base of the obtained evidence charge was pressed against three persons. 

Through preliminary investigation it was found that from mid-August to September 20, 2015 at the section N 5 of “Chakaten forestry” of the branch “Kapan’s forestry” of “Hayantar” SNCO by using a petrol-cut-off-saw 142 trees (oak, maple and hornbeam) were cut up to growth cessation inflicting significant damage to the state.

Through investigation the persons having carried out illegal deforestation were identified. On October 15, 2015 the residents of Syuniq region A. Sargsyan and V. Atabekyan were arrested on suspicion of carrying out deforestation in particularly large amount. Based on the investigation results on October 18 the latters were charged according to the Part 3 of the Article 296 of RA Criminal Code. On the same day the investigator submitted a motion to the Court of First Instance of Syuniq to use detention as a pretrial measure against A. Sargsyan and V. Atabekyan. The motion was rejected.

Through preliminary investigation it was also found that illegal deforestation was caused by negligence of the person in charge of preventing it.

On October 20, 2015 the forester of section N 5 of “Chakaten forestry” Andranik Margaryan was arrested. Through preliminary investigation sufficient data were obtained on the allegation that the forester being authorized to prevent illegal deforestation, in accordance with RA legislation to confiscate and maintain the illegally cut wood, allowed and supported to illegally cut the mentioned trees under his protection by using petrol-cut-off-saw.

On October 23 A. Margaryan was charged according to the Part 3 of the Article 38-296 of RA Criminal Code. On the same day the investigator submitted a motion to the Court to use detention as a pretrial measure against him. The motion was sufficed.

Preliminary investigation is ongoing. Necessary investigatory and procedural actions are taken to provide the comprehensive, objective and complete investigation of circumstances of the case.

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