Armenia’s Investigative Committee estimates that past Vagharshapat (Etchmiadzin) municipal governments squandered some AMD 590 million in taxpayer and state money between 2015-2018.

Municipal procurement contracts were entered into with individuals and business linked to former town mayors, and in some cases, agreed to prices were hiked some 20% without justification.

Shoddy construction on municipal projects also cost taxpayers dearly.

In addition, the municipality was found guilty of hiring individuals who never showed up for work but were paid nevertheless.

The Investigative Committee has launched a criminal case in the matter.