RCMP make arrest in theft of diamonds from Diavik Diamond mines

Yellowknife RCMP,with assistance from the N.W.T. RCMPfederal investigations unit, arrested and charged a man in relation to an internal theft of diamonds fromDiavik Diamond Mines Inc.

Samson Mkhitaryan, 39, of Yellowknife, is charged with two counts of theft over $5,000.His next court appearance is scheduled for April 17.

According to a police statement, the company reported a suspected theft of diamonds to the RCMPin February.

The subsequent investigation led to Mkhitaryan's arrest, and the recovery of the diamonds.

"It is important to recognize the quick actions of the diamond company and investigation by RCMP led to the successful recovery of the diamonds,"RCMP spokesperson MarieYork-Condonsaid in a news release on Wednesday.

The charges have not been proven in court.