LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – A politically charged arrest in Las Vegas has ignited a wave of controversy and support for a man facing extradition to Armenia. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents apprehended Vardan Ghukasyan, a 47-year-old self-described political refugee and free speech advocate, from his Las Vegas apartment on Feb. 20. Ghukasyan, known for his active presence on social media, and as the founder of the political party DOK, had been silent for two weeks following his detention.

Vardan Ghukasyan currently resides in an ICE facility in Henderson, awaiting further proceedings. His supporters argue that his deportation could be a death sentence. “If Mr. Ghukayian ends up being in Armenia, his chance of survival decreases to zero,” said Vardan Hakobyan, one of Ghukasyan’s staunch advocates.

Supporters have rallied around Gukasyan, describing him as a fearless advocate for freedom of speech. Gukasyan had lived in his Las Vegas apartment with his mother until his sudden arrest by ICE agents. According to an ICE spokesperson, “Ghukasyan was arrested by ICE officers on Feb. 20 and placed into custody for his immigration proceedings. He entered the United States on Feb. 19, 2022, and failed to depart under the terms of his admission.”

The controversy deepens as reports from an Armenian newspaper reveal that an international warrant for Ghukasyan’s arrest was issued in 2023, with the Armenian government requesting his extradition.

The charges listed against him include extortion, calls for violence, and contempt of court, although his supporters vehemently claim his only crime was criticizing the Armenian government.

“Absolutely, no doubt,” Hakobyan asserted, regarding Ghukasyan being targeted for his outspoken criticism.

On Mar. 3, Ghukasyan appeared before a federal judge as supporters rallied outside the downtown Las Vegas federal courthouse, holding signs and expressing their solidarity. “A decision will be made by the judge. If it’s against Vardan Ghukasyan, it’s against Armenian people who wish to live in an independent country,” Hakobyan emphasized.

The next court date is set for Monday, Mar. 10, with supporters planning to attend in full force. ICE maintains that all undocumented immigrants receive legal due process during deportation proceedings, and removal decisions are carried out by officers following judicial approval.

As Ghukasyan’s case unfolds, it highlights the broader debate over freedom of speech, political refugees, and the complexities of international extradition.

Meanwhile a petition on Change.org calling for the immediate halt of Vardan Ghukasyan’s extradition has already garnered over 6,000 signatures. The petition underscores the dangers Ghukasyan faces and calls upon U.S. authorities to prevent his extradition due to the imminent threat to his life. If you wish to support this cause, you can sign the petition here.

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