Tense Situation at Hovhannavank Monastic Complex

There is a tense situation at the Hovhannavank monastic complex in the village of Ohanavan. Father Aram Asatryan called the police yesterday and gathered community members in the churchyard. This was reported by journalist Lia Sargsyan on her Facebook page.

With this method, Father Aram attempted to obstruct the service of the newly appointed spiritual leader, Father Manuk Zeynalyan. Observing that the situation could escalate, Father Manuk left the church and has not returned to his place of service since. Residents living near the church informed NEWS.am that no clergymen appeared for service at Hovhannavank church from early morning until 4:00 PM.

According to the media outlet, a baptism ceremony was scheduled at Hovhannavank at 4:00 PM, which started slightly late, reportedly due to Father Aram being summoned by the investigative committee following yesterday's incident.

The Investigative Committee did not provide any comments related to the incident when contacted by Auroranews. The Ministry of Internal Affairs also informed Auroranews that there was an event in Oshakan, and police maintained public order. No further details were provided.