YEREVAN. - During nine months of 2012 the number of crimes against persons increased by 638. At the same time, 161 out of the total number were cases of intended bodily harm, Armenia’s Deputy Attorney General said.

Addressing the meeting of Attorney General’s office board, Mnatsakan Sargsyan said the cases of inflicting grievous harm increased by 25 as compared with the same period last year.

Armenia recorded 41 murders and 23 murder attempts during the mentioned period.  Deputy Attorney General noted several shortcomings registered during investigations of felonies. In particular, the overwhelming majority of protocols say the criminal offence victim is unable to give testimony, the terms of forensic examination are prolonged or several examinations are appointed. Besides, the protocols contain violations. Sargsyan offered the regional and community prosecutors to bring such cases under personal control.