Vandalism at the Armenian Monastery in Akhalkalaki

Unknown individuals have vandalized the Armenian monastery in Akhalkalaki, which is also known as the Hermit Church. According to local Jnews, the incident was noticed by young pilgrims.

“In the morning, when we arrived at the monastery, we found everything broken and scattered. Unknown people had entered the chapel, smashed, and damaged the icons. The monastery is our sanctuary; people come here for pilgrimage, light candles, and leave icons. Unknown individuals have desecrated our sanctity. We don’t know what to do,” said one of the bewildered youths who witnessed the damage.

The local population is demanding that the authorities investigate the act of vandalism. They express shock at the incident, as there has never been a scandal motivated by religion in the region. According to locals, if this case is not addressed, the situation in the area could escalate.

It was recently reported that the Ministry of Internal Affairs has initiated a criminal case under the article concerning “Damage or destruction of cultural heritage,” which provides for fines or imprisonment of up to two years.