Reports of Violence Against Criminals in Prisons; Some Have Been Hospitalized

The newspaper "Hraparak" reports: "There have been retaliations against 'criminals' in correctional institutions, meaning those individuals whom the prison authorities consider to be carriers of criminal subculture. Special forces enter the cells wearing masks and brutally beat them. In the past week, such prophylactic measures have been implemented in the 'Armavir', 'Vanadzor', and 'Nubarashen' prisons.

Law enforcement officials take advantage of the fact that in these cases, victims do not turn to the authorities and refuse to file complaints. Complaining to law enforcement in the criminal world is considered a shameful act, and in some cases, a stigma.

According to our information, some of the beaten individuals have been transferred to hospitals in very poor condition. Taking them to the hospital is also a trick to avoid the obligation to document the injuries, as that obligation falls on the respective medical institution.

What is behind the violence in prisons, which bodies have entered detention facilities, and on what grounds have inmates been subjected to beatings? Spokesperson for the Penitentiary Service, Nona Navikyan, clarified: 'In correctional institutions, unscheduled searches are regularly conducted according to the law to identify prohibited items and objects in the cells. To prevent serious violations of internal regulations, various subdivisions of the central authority, including the special forces, are also involved in the operations as necessary.

It should also be noted that according to current legislative regulations, prison staff are authorized to use physical force and special measures in cases of non-compliance with legal demands or obstruction.' In fact, our information regarding the use of force has been confirmed."