Events are unfolding in Armenia surrounding the arrest of Vardan Ghukasyan, the mayor of Gyumri, the second-largest city. Thirty-three people were detained following yesterday's protest outside the city hall.
The Investigative Committee of Armenia reports that the arrests were made as part of an investigation into cases of mass riots and obstruction of justice. Ghukasyan has been remanded in custody for two months.
Lawyer Zaruhi Postanjyan claims that her client has been treated unacceptably: he is not provided with the necessary nutrition for his diabetes, and his cell lacks essential items and hygiene products.
Earlier, the Anti-Corruption Committee of Armenia opened a criminal case against Ghukasyan on charges of bribery, based on intelligence data. Eight people have also been detained in connection with the case.
Ghukasyan's arrest sparked a wave of protests in Gyumri. On October 20, Ghukasyan's supporters gathered outside the city hall to express their support for him, leading to clashes with police. Police used force to disperse demonstrators and restore order near the city administration building.
