Investigative Committee filed motion to take Archbishop Mikayel Ajapahyan into custody

During the pre-trial investigation of a criminal case being conducted by the Main Department for Particularly Important Cases of the RA Investigative Committee, a decision was made to institute criminal prosecution under Article 422, Part 2 of the RA Criminal Code against Primate of Shirak Diocese Archbishop Mikayel Ajapahyan. The charge alleges that he publicly called for the seizure of power and the forcible overthrow of the constitutional order through mass media, information, and communication technologies, the RA Investigative Committee reports.

“In connection with this, on June 27, 2025, a decision was made to arrest Mikayel Ajapahyan, who is currently in freedom, with the aim of applying detention as a preventive measure,” reads the statement.

The execution of this arrest order has been entrusted by law to officers of the RA State Security Service (NSS). Considering that during the proceedings, a group of individuals obstructed the lawful activities of law enforcement bodies, a criminal case has also been initiated on the grounds of obstructing the administration of justice.

The Investigative Committee warns that obstructing or interfering with the lawful professional activities of law enforcement agencies by various individuals, according to RA legislation, may lead to criminal liability. Under these circumstances, it is urged to refrain from any manifestations of illegal behavior,” reads the statement.