Archbishop Mikayel Ajapahyan , leader of Shirak Diocese, is remanded in custody for two months pending investigation into “public calls to carry out a military coup.”

Lawyer Ara Zohrabyan told reporters that his communications have been restricted by the court, except for interactions with immediate family members and legal defense.

Earlier, Zohrabyan had stated that criminal proceedings were initiated under Article 422, Part 2 of the Criminal Code of Armenia. The investigative body had petitioned the court to remand him in custody .

The charges stem from statements by Archbishop Mikayel that were interpreted as calls for “carrying out a military coup” in the country. The case concerns “public appeals aimed at overthrowing the authorities, violating territorial integrity, relinquishing sovereignty, or forcibly toppling the constitutional order.”

In court, Archbishop Mikael emphasized that even if detained, he remains grateful to God for enduring this trial.

Zohrabyan relayed to journalists: “In his final statement at the judicial session, Archbishop Mikael said that ‘even if you detain me, I am still thankful to God for passing through this trial’,” reported http://Panorama.am .

According to Zohrabyan, he is in good spirits, remains calm, and intends to use the opportunity to rest.

Archbishop Mikael denies the charges against him.

In related events, on the morning of June 27, around 30 masked individuals raided the Shirak Diocese residence. At the time, Archbishop Ajapahyan was at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin for a clergy meeting. The State Security Service entered the Mother See to detain him. The Archbishop stated he was ready to cooperate with law enforcement.