Gyumri, April 17, 2026 – Law enforcement officials in Gyumri have arrested a man and a woman on suspicion of attempting to traffic drugs in the city. The arrests followed an investigation initiated after community police received information regarding suspicious activities.
Details of the Operation
On April 8, community police officers from the Mush department received intelligence indicating that a man and a woman were distributing drug packages in various locations across Gyumri using a “Suzuki” branded vehicle. Following this tip, officers initiated surveillance.
The suspects’ vehicle was located behind the “Mother Armenia” memorial complex in Gyumri. Police observed the man and woman exit the car, survey the area, take photos with a mobile phone, and then re-enter the vehicle. These actions were deemed consistent with drug placement activities.
Arrest and Initial Findings
At approximately 4:00 PM on April 8, community police officers apprehended the 26-year-old man, a resident of Aragyugh in Kotayk Province, and the 24-year-old woman, a resident of Nor Kharberd in Ararat Province. Both individuals, along with their vehicle, were transported to the police station for further investigation.
The vehicle was sealed and secured in a designated area. A criminal case has been initiated by the Shirak Regional Investigative Department.
Evidence and Confession
During the investigative proceedings, the 26-year-old man identified four packages that had already been placed in different parts of the memorial complex. He admitted that these packages contained marijuana, which they had acquired through a Telegram channel with the intent to sell.
A subsequent search of the “Suzuki” vehicle, conducted under a court order, revealed an additional 21 packages wrapped in red and yellow. According to the 26-year-old, these packages also contained marijuana and were intended for distribution in other areas of Gyumri.
Custody and Ongoing Investigation
Both the 26-year-old man and the 24-year-old woman have been taken into custody. The preliminary investigation is ongoing to determine all circumstances surrounding the case.
Broader Context of Drug-Related Crime
This incident is part of a series of drug-related arrests and discoveries in Armenia. Recent reports from pastinfo.am highlight a growing concern over illicit drug trafficking, with several cases being reported across the country.
- April 13, 2026: Community police uncovered a drug trafficking operation.
- April 10, 2026: An MP proposed stricter penalties for drug offenses due to an increase in illegal drug circulation.
- April 9, 2026: Mashots community police arrested a drug dealer, seizing 21 packages of marijuana from him and his car.
- April 6, 2026: A large quantity of drugs was discovered.
- April 3, 2026: Police guards rescued a young man attempting to flee, finding packages resembling drugs.
These incidents underscore the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat drug-related crime and the challenges faced in controlling the spread of illegal substances.
Source: https://pastinfo.am/hy/news/2026/04/17/%D4%B9%D5%B4%D6%80%D5%A1%D5%B4%D5%AB%D5%BB%D5%B8%D6%81%D5%B6%D5%A5%D6%80%D5%AB-%D5%AB%D6%80%D5%A1%D5%81%D5%B4%D5%A1%D5%B6/1965413
