The Special Investigation Department on human trafficking, crimes against the sexual inviolability of minors, and illegal drug circulation under the RA Investigative Committee has completed the pre-trial investigation of a case involving the kidnapping of foreign nationals.

According to the Investigative Committee, preliminary findings indicate that individuals impersonating police officers entered the apartment of a foreign citizen, took a powdery substance from a table, and claimed it was drugs.

Under the pretext of escorting the foreigners to a police station and with the intention of extorting money, the suspects forced them into a car and drove along the Yerevan-Sevan highway, effectively abducting them through deceit.

The suspects then threatened to disclose information that could harm the foreigners’ legal interests and demanded money. Upon reaching Yerevan, fearing for their lives and health, the victims handed over cryptocurrency equivalent to 14,281,560 AMD.

Two individuals have been charged under:

Article 191(2)(5,8) of the Criminal Code (kidnapping a person for material gain by a group),

Article 207(1) (violation of housing inviolability), and

Article 258(3)(3) (extortion in especially large amounts).

Preventive measures imposed include house arrest, travel ban, and bail.

The case has been forwarded to the supervising prosecutor with an indictment, requesting confirmation and referral to court for trial.