Criminal Proceedings Against Former Police Chief Hayk Harutyunyan Sent to Court Over March 1 Case

The prosecutor, on August 3, 2026, submitted criminal proceedings against Hayk Harutyunyan, who held the position of head of the police under the government of Armenia from 2003 until May 29, 2008, to the first instance criminal court of general jurisdiction in Yerevan, along with an established indictment.

It is recalled that within the framework of the criminal proceedings initiated regarding the events that took place on March 1-2, 2008, in Yerevan, the prosecutor initiated public criminal prosecution against the former head of the National Police of Armenia, Hayk Harutyunyan, on April 18, 2026, based on Article 38-309, part 2 (aiding an official in abuse of powers with violence, weapons, or special equipment) and Article 315, part 2 (official negligence resulting in death or other severe consequences) of the Criminal Code adopted on April 18, 2003.

The investigation has revealed that from 2003 to May 29, 2008, while occupying the position of head of the police, Hayk Harutyunyan organized the dispersal of a peaceful rally at Freedom Square in Yerevan, which was conducted through violence and the use of special measures by various police units. Alongside other high-ranking police officials, he used force to forcibly remove protesters from the square and prevent possible gatherings in the central areas of the city, causing significant harm to the rights and legal interests of individuals, as well as the legitimate interests of society and the state.

Moreover, the other charge against Hayk Harutyunyan is based on the fact that as the head of the police state management body, he was obliged to present drafts and proposals concerning the activities and organization of the police to the Armenian government's consideration, including regulations on the use of special measures such as tear gas