But others questioned whether the authorities had the power to continue investigations even if other senior political figures were implicated. The arrest of the more venal representatives of the old regime is, or should be, primarily a judicial matter. Almost unavoidably, the investigation of as senior an official as Mr Barsoumian should lead upward in the political hierarchy. But the authorities have expressed their determination to continue the crackdown. Security sources said the oil case was opened after specific information was submitted to the public prosecutor's office leading to the filing of a regular lawsuit.
Observers believe a political decision has been made to look into a number of embezzlement cases.
In fact, not long after Barsoumian's arrest, an investigation was ordered into allegedly stolen antiquities some of which were found in the homes of former government officials. Nationwide police raids were staged to track down the missing artefacts. Over 2,000 were recovered in galleries, shops, and residences across the country. No arrests have yet been made. Deputy Walid Jumblatt, Druze chief and former minister, criticised the anti-corruption campaign.