Armenian Clergy Detained in Criminal Investigation

Information has been circulated in the media that Father Paren Arakelyan, the spiritual pastor of Saghmosavank of the Aragatsotn diocese, has been arrested, and other clergymen have been detained, including the leader of the Aragatsotn diocese.

The Investigative Committee told the media that within the framework of the preliminary investigation of a criminal proceeding initiated on the case of obstructing or forcing participation in a gathering by using official or service powers or the influence conditioned by them, as well as materially motivating to participate in or refuse to participate in a gathering, necessary procedural and evidentiary actions are being carried out.

It should be recalled that the matter concerns several clergymen, including the leader of the Aragatsotn diocese. According to reports, one of them has been arrested, and the status of the others is unknown. No other details are being reported at this time.