The detention of Archbishop Arshak Khachatryan, Chancellor of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, has been extended by two months. The decision was made by Judge Karen Farhoyan, Aysor.am reports.
Arshak Khachatryan was arrested on December 5 and is currently being held at the “Yerevan-Kentron” penitentiary. His visitation rights remain limited; he may only meet with close relatives and his legal defense team.
The initial arrest order was issued by Judge Masis Melkonyan. On December 4, Armenia’s National Security Service detained Archbishop Arshak at the Investigative Committee building. He faces charges under Article 393, Part 2, Clauses 1 and 4 of the Criminal Code of Armenia.
According to the Investigative Committee, during the preliminary investigation, public criminal prosecution was initiated against him under charges of illegal drug distribution by a group with prior agreement, at a ceremonial venue.
