HCAV Alarmed by Reports of Russian Security Activities
Helsinki Citizens’ Assembly-Vanadzor (HCAV) has issued a statement expressing alarm over recent reports concerning the activities of Russian security forces within Armenia. In recent weeks, HCAV has received increasing signals from Russian citizens who have sought asylum in Armenia, fleeing political persecution, regarding disturbing observations.
Details of Alleged Illegal Surveillance Operations
According to these reports, Russian citizens seeking refuge in Armenia have noticed individuals in Russian military uniforms conducting overt surveillance near their places of residence. These individuals have reportedly been inquiring about the residents of these accommodations. HCAV has confirmed that these individuals, identified as representatives of Russian law enforcement, are utilizing unmarked vehicles with Armenian license plates, vehicles typically reserved for covert operative-intelligence activities.
Concerns for Russian Asylum Seekers and Armenian Critics
HCAV emphasizes that it is evident that Russian law enforcement representatives are conducting external surveillance and operative-intelligence activities within Armenia. Such operations, by international legal norms and practices, require explicit authorization and consent from the General Prosecutor’s Office or other relevant law enforcement agencies of the Republic of Armenia. The organization asserts that the Russian authorities are extending their political persecution of dissidents not only within Russia but also into the territory of the Republic of Armenia. This situation is deeply concerning, not only for Russian citizens who have sought asylum in Armenia but also for Armenian citizens who openly criticize the policies of the Russian authorities.
HCAV Condemnation: Actions Undermine Armenian Sovereignty
The Russian citizens who contacted HCAV have reported feeling increasingly unsafe in Armenia and are now seeking alternative options for their security and well-being. Through its statement, HCAV draws the attention of the Armenian authorities to these unacceptable and unlawful actions by Russian law enforcement agencies on the sovereign territory of Armenia. HCAV unequivocally condemns these actions, deeming them incompatible with the commitments of a democratic and law-based state. The organization asserts that these operations are directed against Armenia’s sovereignty as a democratic and law-based nation.
Demands for Immediate Action from Armenian Authorities
HCAV urgently demands that the General Prosecutor’s Office of the Republic of Armenia, the National Security Service of Armenia, and the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Armenia take immediate and appropriate measures. These measures should not only halt the illegal activities of Russian law enforcement within Armenia but also ensure that those responsible for authorizing and conducting these unlawful operations are held accountable.
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