YEREVAN, MARCH 22, ARMENPRESS. The National Security Service of Armenia has detailed on the arrest of former Defense Minister of Artsakh, Defense Army ex-Commander Samvel Babayan. As “Armenpress” was informed from the NSS Armenia, Samvel Babyan has been arrested for smuggling Igla antiaircraft missile complex into the Republic of Armenia. Bellow is the statement of the NSS Armenia.

“In answer to various enquiries by different news outlets the press service of the National Security Service of Armenia informs that three persons, including citizen of the Republic of Armenia Samvel Babayan, are arrested at the moment over a criminal case initiated for smuggling Igla antiaircraft missile complex into the Republic of Armenia.

As a result of operative-investigative measures we have gathered trustworthy information that the individuals responsible for the acquisition and transportation of the parts of the mentioned antiaircraft missile complex operated in line with an in-advance agreement with Samvel Babyan and upon his request.

According to the conclusion of the expert the “9M39” missile of the antiaircraft missile complex is in a fit state and is considered ammunition.

Currently the motivations for acquiring the parts of the antiaircraft missile complex, possible goals for its application, as well as funding sources are being clarified.

Preliminary investigation is underway”.