menu_open Columnists
We use cookies to provide some features and experiences in QOSHE

More information  .  Close

Armenia escalates corruption probe as raid reveals former Finance Chief’s hidden assets

56 0
10.09.2026

Authorities have released dramatic footage of paintings, firearms, medals and jewelry seized from former Finance Minister Gagik Khachatryan’s residence as investigators pursue allegations of bribery, embezzlement and money laundering involving millions of dollars and an extensive network of properties and companies.

Armenian authorities have released video footage showing a large collection of valuables seized during a search of the home of former Finance Minister Gagik Khachatryan, intensifying a corruption investigation that has already expanded to encompass hundreds of millions of dollars in alleged assets, dozens of properties and business interests.

The footage, released on September 9, shows investigators displaying paintings, firearms, medals, jewelry and other valuables recovered during the search. The seizure forms part of a wider anti-corruption case against Khachatryan, a former senior government official who held influential positions in Armenia’s tax and finance administration for years.

Khachatryan, 71, served as head of Armenia’s tax agency from 2008 to 2014 before becoming finance minister, a position he held until 2016. His long career at the center of Armenia’s state financial system has now placed him at the center of one of the country’s most significant corruption investigations.

He was arrested last week and placed in pre-trial detention as prosecutors pursued a series of allegations involving illicit enrichment and the movement of allegedly criminal proceeds.

On September 1, Armenian prosecutors announced new charges against Khachatryan, alleging that he accepted real estate bribes valued at approximately $5.99 million for the benefit of his sons. Prosecutors also accuse him of embezzling nearly $480,000 in state funds and laundering proceeds allegedly obtained through criminal activity.

Khachatryan’s legal team has rejected the allegations, denying all accusations against the former minister. His defense maintains that the charges are unfounded, setting the stage for a potentially........

© Blitz