Arguing that while freedom of speech and access to information is guaranteed in Armenia, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan today instructed National Security Service Head Artur Vanetsyan to combat what he described as “criminal gangs spending millions to manipulate public opinion.”

At a government cabinet session, Pashinyan claimed the social networks in Armenia were full of people hiding behind “fake” identities who are brandishing revolutionary flags and calling for violence.

Pashinyan referred to a recent statement circulated in social websites blaming the government for the rise in compressed gas prices. He refuted the allegation.

“I believe that the legislation of the Republic of Armenia affords such a possibility, of course, while at the same time not endangering freedom of speech and expression. It’s an incontestable value for us,” Pashinyan said.