We feel our share of guilt: State Revenue Committee chairman on Azerbaijani apple smuggling

As result of the state revenue committee’s efforts, the identities of smugglers of Azerbaijani apples to Armenia, and their accomplices in the customs checkpoints have been revealed, head of the state revenue committee Vardan Harutyunyan told a press conference on May 11.

“The occurrence is very bad, I treat this occurrence very negatively. As result of our actions the smugglers and their accomplices have been revealed. Currently the case is under the proceedings of the investigative committee. Since it’s under investigation, allow me to refrain from releasing any names. The investigative committee made a statement yesterday in terms of how many people have been arrested and the damages,” Harutyunyan said.

He added that in the stage of clearing the system, there still are some people who don’t understand that it’s time to change and refrain from this kind of misconduct. “I feel our share of guilt in this, but I repeat that it is due to our efforts that the smugglers were identified.

The bribed customs officers aren’t the only ones who have a share of guilt, but also the briber, smuggler, and seller of those apples. We have our share of guilt, and I announce that these people will be punished,” Harutyunyan said. Harutyunyan vowed to fight against corruption occurrences.