Lawyer: Devices seized after searches at homes of Aragatsotn Diocese priests, lay employees

Armenia’s law enforcement authorities conducted searches at the homes of several clerics from the Aragatsotn Diocese, as well as at the diocesan offices and the residences of some lay employees, early on Wednesday, according to lawyer Ara Zohrabyan.

Zohrabyan told reporters that investigators seized various documents, computers and phones, including devices belonging to the family members of one lay staff member, who were also reportedly taken in for questioning.

“All are currently here except Bishop Mkrtich Proshyan – six priests and several lay employees, including the treasurer, secretary and accountant,” Zohrabyan said.

He added that the location of Bishop Proshyan remains undisclosed and that lawyers have officially requested a meeting with him through the Yerevan Investigative Committee.

Zohrabyan also warned that the “forcible disappearance” of an individual is a criminal offense under Article 451 of Armenia’s Criminal Code, carrying a penalty of up to seven years in prison.