3 Lions, Tiger and 190 Taxidermy Animals Seized From Gagik Tsarukyan’s Estate

Armenian investigators said they seized three lions, a tiger and 190 taxidermy specimens from opposition leader Gagik Tsarukyan’s estate as part of a criminal case into alleged illegal hunting.

The Investigative Committee said the search was carried out at a residence belonging to Tsarukyan in Kotayk province. The case is being handled by the committee’s regional investigative department.

Authorities said the seized taxidermy specimens included different wild animals and birds. The three lions and one tiger found at the property were recognized as evidence and taken to the Yerevan Zoo.

Investigators said the alleged illegal hunting caused 30 million drams in environmental damage.

The committee said other animals kept at the estate are expected to be seized in the coming days and transferred for responsible care.

The announcement came after Tsarukyan, the leader of the Prosperous Armenia Party and one of Armenia’s wealthiest businessmen, was arrested following searches at his home and businesses. He was charged in a separate case with fraud and money laundering. His lawyers have rejected the accusations.

The investigation into the alleged illegal hunting is continuing.

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