Embezzlement Suspicions Lead to Arrest of Bednayel Municipality Vice President and Treasurer

The General Directorate of State Security - Media, Guidance and Public Relations Department issued the following statement:

"In line with its ongoing efforts to combat corruption and the exploitation of public positions for illicit gains, and to protect public funds, a patrol from the Northern Regional Directorate - Inquiry and Investigation Section conducted a raid on the headquarters of the Bednayel municipality in the Koura district. They initiated auditing and investigation procedures into several financial and administrative files belonging to the municipality, based on suspicions related to financial violations and the embezzlement of public funds.

As a result of the investigations, and upon the instruction of the Financial Public Prosecution, the following individuals were detained:

- The Vice President of the Municipality (B. A.).

- The Treasurer (J. Y.).

- Two Municipal Council Members (M. A.) and (H. Q.).

- A municipal contractor (R. Sh.).

This was due to suspicions of their involvement in crimes of embezzlement and corruption, while necessary legal and judicial procedures continue under the supervision of competent authorities.

The General Directorate of State Security affirms that combating corruption is an ongoing national and institutional responsibility. It also stresses that no cover prevents the pursuit of any suspicion of corruption, and it remains committed to performing its duty with firmness and professionalism, in coordination with the competent judiciary, to uncover violations and hold those responsible accountable in accordance with legal procedures."