BREAKING: Businessman & Philanthropist Samvel Karapetyan Detained for 2 Months Without Clear Charges

Well-known businessman and philanthropist Samvel Karapetyan has been ordered to remain in detention for two months. The ruling came from the Yerevan Court of First Instance of General Jurisdiction, which chose detention as a preventive measure, even though no clear criminal charges have been made public. The Armenian Report’s Ani Khachatryan is outside the courthouse covering the developments in this case.

Karapetyan, the Russian-Armenian owner of Tashir Group, is one of the most prominent supporters of Armenia through both business and charity. His detention was announced after he was taken from his home at around 3am on Wednesday by law enforcement officers and brought to the Investigative Committee of Armenia. From there, he was moved to court for a decision on his status.

As Karapetyan was escorted to court, dozens of Armenians gathered outside the Investigative Committee’s building, applauded him, and marched with him to the courthouse. Many present expressed disbelief and anger at the unfolding situation.

His lawyers, including Armen Feroyan, called the detention illegal and absurd, stating that Karapetyan is being held without any criminal accusations. “This is lawlessness. People are being arrested with zero legal basis,” Feroyan told reporters. “We will appeal the court's decision and expect a fair resolution soon.”

Karapetyan’s detention shocked many across Armenia and the global Armenian community. He is not just a businessman — he is widely respected for his long-time donations to Armenia’s economy, schools, churches, and national defense efforts. Tashir Group, his company, is one of the largest investors in Armenia, with billions of dollars in projects across the country. He has also made notable investments in Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh). 

Many are watching to see if courts will uphold real legal standards or continue allowing arrests without transparency. Critics say the government is going after patriotic business leaders instead of solving real problems in the country.

The defense team plans to take the case to higher courts. Karapetyan’s supporters continue to stand by him, and a growing number of citizens are demanding answers. 

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