Agents of Armenia’s National Security Service (NSS) have entered the premises in Etchmiadzin where the residence of the Catholicos of All Armenians is located.

Axar.az reports that NSS special forces crossed into the area surrounding Catholicos Garegin II’s residence in Etchmiadzin.

It is reported that the special forces likely came to detain Archbishop Mikael Ajapakhyan, head of the Shirak Diocese, who was at the residence attending a clerical meeting.

Earlier, reports indicated that nearly 30 masked individuals had entered the Shirak Diocese building.

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A clash broke out between police and clergy in the courtyard of the Catholicos’ residence in Etchmiadzin during an NSS operation.

Masked special forces had entered the premises earlier. The clergy attempted to obstruct the operation.

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Armenia’s National Security Service (NSS) has taken Archbishop Mikael Ajapakhyan from the Etchmiadzin Monastery, where Catholicos Garegin II resides.

Following his detention, tensions remain high around the monastery. Clashes are reported from time to time between security forces and the faithful.

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NSS special forces were ultimately unable to detain Archbishop Mikael Ajapakhyan and withdrew from the Etchmiadzin Monastery.

The NSS stated that a large crowd had gathered near the monastery.

“For security reasons and to prevent deliberate escalation, NSS and police decided to leave the area. We call on Mikael Ajapakhyan not to hide and to voluntarily approach the NSS operative group,” the statement said.

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The Armenian Investigative Committee has launched a criminal case over the obstruction of law enforcement efforts to detain Archbishop Mikael Ajapakhyan.

According to Armenian media, during the attempted detention, a group of people interfered with the lawful activities of law enforcement.

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The head of the Shirak Diocese, Archbishop Mikael Ajapakhyan, began walking with his lawyers toward the Investigative Committee building in Yerevan to give testimony.

Citizens allowed him to approach the building voluntarily.

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Archbishop Mikael Ajapakhyan has entered the Investigative Committee building in Yerevan, and a decision has been made to detain him.

NSS officers immediately took the archbishop into custody. The surrounding streets and nearby yards have been cordoned off by police.

Supporters of the clergyman are gathering near the building.

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Law enforcement officers have started detaining citizens who gathered outside the Investigative Committee building in Yerevan to support Archbishop Mikael Ajapakhyan.