Criminal proceedings launched against protesters obstructing arrest of Armenian bishop

The Armenian Investigative Committee has initiated a criminal case against individuals who allegedly interfered with the attempted detention of Archbishop Mikael Ajapahian, Primate of the Diocese of Shirak of the Armenian Apostolic Church.

The case pertains to actions deemed as obstruction of justice during a National Security Service (NSS) operation, Caliber.Az reports, citing Armenian media.

According to an official statement from the Investigative Committee, the conduct of the citizens who resisted law enforcement is being legally classified as obstruction of lawful official duties. The committee emphasized that interference in the activities of law enforcement bodies constitutes a criminal offense under Armenian law.

“The Investigative Committee reminds all citizens of the criminal responsibility associated with hindering the lawful actions of law enforcement agencies and urges them to operate within the legal framework when expressing their views,” the statement read.

This development follows earlier reports confirming that criminal proceedings had been launched against Archbishop Ajapahian under Article 422, Part 2 of Armenia’s Criminal Code. The NSS accused the Archbishop of using mass media and other public communication channels to issue calls for the violent seizure of power and the overthrow of the constitutional order.

Authorities conducted a search of the Archbishop’s residence in Gyumri as part of the investigation. However, he was not present at the time, as he was attending a meeting of clergy in Etchmiadzin. Law enforcement later moved to Etchmiadzin in an effort to detain him.

The case has sparked public debate in Armenia, given Archbishop Ajapahian’s influential position within the Church and his outspoken criticism of the government. The NSS has called on citizens to remain calm and refrain from any actions that could exacerbate tensions or impede legal proceedings. 

By Vafa Guliyeva