Armenia: Authorities evacuate metro stations and other facilities across Yerevan Aug. 14 following bomb threat

Event

Law enforcement authorities are responding to a widespread bomb threat in Yerevan during the evening of Aug. 14. At 16:46, the National Crisis Management Center reportedly received a threat claiming that bombs had been placed at all of the city's metro stations, as well as at shopping malls and important military and civilian facilities. Authorities have been evacuating metro stations and other affected locations across the Armenian capital as they conduct bomb search and clearance operations. The Yerevan metro has reportedly suspended service while police perform their investigations; it remains unclear when normal service may resume.

Public transport disruptions, increased security, and precautionary evacuations will likely continue across Yerevan well into the night of Aug. 14.

Context

The bomb threat and the associated police response come only three hours after an explosion at Yerevan's Surmalu Shopping Center left at least two people dead and about 60 injured. Investigators believe that that blast originated in a fireworks storage area at the facility; the incident drew a major emergency response.

The Aug. 14 bomb threat is the latest in a series of such incidents in Yerevan over recent months. On July 20 and Aug. 2, similar threats prompted authorities to temporarily shut down Zvartnots International Airport (EVN), metro stations, and government facilities while police teams searched for explosive devices; the July 20 and Aug. 2 threats turned out to be hoaxes.

Advice

Consider alternative transportation options and allow extra time for travel in Yerevan into at least the early hours of Aug. 15. Strictly heed the instructions of local security personnel. Remain courteous and cooperative if stopped and questioned by law enforcement officers.