Armenian authorities have arrested businessman Gagik Tsarukyan, leader of the opposition Prosperous Armenia Party.
Before his arrest on July 6, law enforcement officers searched Tsarukyan’s home and several of his companies.
His lawyer, Erem Sargsyan, says Tsarukyan is accused of aiding fraud and money laundering, allegations the defense describes as “ridiculous and absurd.”
Sargsyan said the case is linked to the Armenia-Iran Chamber of Commerce, which Tsarukyan helped establish to promote bilateral relations. Lawyer says some Iranian citizens involved in the chamber allegedly abused their authority, but Tsarukyan had no connection to the alleged wrongdoing.
Tsarukyan is expected to appear in court, where prosecutors will seek his pre-trial detention.
