Seven individuals have been arrested in connection with a criminal investigation into the alleged preparation of a terrorist act and the illegal possession of weapons and explosives, according to Armenia’s Investigative Committee.

The ongoing criminal proceedings, led by the Yerevan Investigative Department, focus on “suspected attempts to organize terrorism and the unlawful storage of firearms, key components, ammunition, and various devices.” The investigation is based on Article 43-308(1) and Article 335(1) of Armenia’s Criminal Code.

As part of the large-scale investigative and procedural actions, law enforcement conducted searches at several addresses, uncovering “an electric detonator intended for remote-controlled explosions, its components, a live grenade and detonator, gunpowder, radio communication equipment, and other materials deemed relevant to the investigation.”

Urgent investigative and procedural measures have been taken. Seven individuals have been detained so far. One of them is facing formal charges under Article 43-308(1) for preparing a terrorist act.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Earlier reports indicated that searches were conducted at the homes of Gegham Manukyan, a member of the ARF Armenia Supreme Body and a parliamentarian from the Hayastan faction, and Vahagn Matinyan, head of the ARF Armenia Supreme Body's office. A search was also carried out at the home of Gevorg Muradyan, a member of the Yeghvard consolidated community council and chairman of the ARF Youth Union Central Committee. ARF Yerevan City Committee member Arsen Martoyan was taken in. Martoyan and Taron Manukyan have been arrested, as well as Gegham Manukyan’s son.