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HCAV strongly condemns violence against editor

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Helinsky Citizens' Assembly-Vanadzor (HCAV) strongly condemns violence against Narine Avetisyan, editor-in-chief of "Lori" TV company in the evening of September 28, 2017. It happened because asphalting works during heavy rain were being filmed by Narine Avetisyan. Tigran Nazaryan, head of “Shinplus” Construction Company, with the help of his employees, with the use of physical force took away Narine Avetisyan’s phone, pushing her to the ground. Let us mention that this is the fifth case when Narine Avetisyan is subjected to violence during her journalistic activities. As a result of all four previous cases of violence, the perpetrators were not disclosed and subjected to liability. Let's note that the photos and videos shot by Narine Avetisyan had been erased from her phone which was found at the scene. The employees of HCAV are responsible for the protection of the interests of Narine Avetisyan, the victim of the criminal case. We hereby inform you that this time there are sufficient facts and circumstances to disclose and prosecute those who hinder the journalist's professional activities, accompanied by physical violence, theft of property and the destruction of journalistic materials. At the same time, Narine Avetisyan presented her explanations not only in the case of hindering her activities, but also highlighted the need to investigate the ineffective use of public resources. HCAV will continue to be responsible for bringing to liability the perpetrators, and investigating the issues raised by Narine Avetisyan. We emphasize the importance of the RA General Prosecutor's Office, the Investigative Committee, the RA Human Rights Defender's responses to the fact of violence against Narine Avetisyan, the Editor-in-Chief of "Lori" TV Company, and expect the full implementation of their functions. At the same time, we believe that the facts of continuous violence against journalists and ineffective investigations held in the past have proven the inadequate and irresponsible attitude of the authorities that have led to the formation of an impunity atmosphere.