The Investigative Committee of Armenia has denied claims that investigative operations were being prepared at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin.

“There is no such thing,” said Kima Avdalyan, spokesperson for the Investigative Committee, according to Sputnik Armenia.

Reports had circulated in the media and online alleging that law enforcement agencies were planning operations within the premises of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan made a Facebook post stating that “the house of Christ has been seized by a immoral, anti-national group and must be liberated,” adding that he would personally “lead this liberation.”

The World Council of Churches issued a statement of solidarity, expressing support for the Armenian Apostolic Church.