Mother See issues statement

The behavior and use of force by law enforcement at the spiritual center of the Armenian nation are condemnable and unacceptable, the Mother See said in a statement.

“On the morning of June 27, law enforcement forces entered the territory of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin and the Patriarchal Residence, and attempted to arrest Shirak Diocese Primate Archbishop Mikayel Ajapahyan, who had come to the Mother See as the coordinator of the priestly assembly.

Although Archbishop Mikayel Ajapahyan was willing to go to the Investigative Committee and tried to sit in a vehicle with representatives of law enforcement, people and present clergy raised their voices in protest upon seeing the large influx of masked officers from the NSS and police.

The conduct and use of force by law enforcement at the spiritual center of the Armenian nation are condemnable and unacceptable.

Although not properly notified, Archbishop Mikayel Ajapahyan has made a decision and, without avoiding the presented demand, will go to Yerevan to present himself at the Investigative Committee.

The Mother See urges the people not to fall for provocations, to remain vigilant, and to continue supporting through all lawful means,” reads the statement.