Investigation into the clash of the protestors with the police in Armenia’s Gyumri city is underway, Mamikon Muradyan, attorney of charged Samvel Sargsyan, 17, told Armenian News – NEWS.am.

“The investigation is underway. [But] No investigatory actions are currently taking place. I think they are waiting for Permyakov’s trial to decide what to do with the case,” the attorney said.  

Six members of the Avetisyan family—including a two-year-old girl—were shot dead, and a six-month-old baby—Seryozha Avetisyan—was wounded and died in hospital on January 19.

Valery Permyakov, a serviceman of the 102nd Russian Military Base in the Gyumri, stands accused in this crime. Permyakov was apprehended by the Russian border guards near the Armenian-Turkish border on the same night, he was arrested on January 14.

Two criminal cases have been initiated: The Russian side has charged Permyakov with “walkout”,” while the Investigative Committee of Armenia brought murder charges against him.  

On January14-15, protest was held in Gyumri; the participants were demanding to hand over Permyakov to the Armenian side. The protest grew into a clash with the police.

After the clashes, charges were brought against more than 17 citizens.