Arrest of Tegh Community Mayor Under Brutal Circumstances: 'Haykakan Jamanak'

The Chief of Police in Goris, Karen Hovsepyan, nicknamed 'Bichok,' is now facing scrutiny following the arrest of Tegh community leader David Ghoulunts.

According to the newspaper 'Haykakan Jamanak,' on October 5, the mayor was arrested and subsequently released. Reports indicate that the arrest was executed with exceptional brutality, resembling a show of force. Approximately 20 police officers, led by the chief, allegedly tackled him to the asphalt, twisting his arms, before taking him to the precinct and releasing him after six hours.

Ghoulunts has not taken this humiliation lightly, sources suggest he has lodged a complaint with higher authorities, seeking a review of the police's disproportionate actions and demanding accountability.

On the day of the arrest, the Ministry of Internal Affairs clarified that the mayor was subjected to administrative detention under Article 182 of the Administrative Violations Code of the Republic of Armenia. This article pertains to failure to comply with the lawful demands of military personnel or police officers, reportedly connected to illegal construction activities.

Interestingly, Goris residents mention that the police chief earned his nickname 'Bichok' after an incident years ago, when a local official threw a 'bichok' (a type of pastry) at him.