Strong Armenia condemns Armenian authorities` political repression  against PAP leader

ArmInfo.  The "Strong Armenia" bloc condemns the current authorities' political repression against  Prosperous Armenia Party leader Gagik Tsarukyan and the searches of  his companies. This is yet another example of the ongoing mass  political persecution in the country, according to a statement from  Samvel Karapetyan's "Strong Armenia" opposition bloc.

"The main goal of the current authorities' ongoing repression is to  suppress opposition forces. Using the law enforcement system as a  political weapon is seriously damaging the country's economy and  investment climate.

Clearly, this lack of public support. Armenia needs changes that will  ensure the rule of law, an independent judiciary, and public  well-being," the political party stated.

Early in the morning of July 6, security forces conducted searches of  Gagik Tsarukyan's home and businesses. Searches were conducted at  more than 70 addresses, all of which were subsequently sealed.  After  12 hours of investigative activities, Tsarukyan was detained, and a  motion for his arrest has been filed with the court. He is accused of  aiding and abetting fraud and aiding and abetting money laundering.   Tsarukyan's defense team called the charges against the businessman  absurd. Furthermore, investigators confiscated the businessman's  animals and moved them to the Yerevan Zoo.