Maria Zakharova: We support measures taken by Armenia's authorities over seized Patrol Service Regiment in Yerevan

"We condemn the seizure of the Patrol Service Regiment building in Yerevan," Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian foreign ministry, said at the July 21 press briefing.  "We support the measures taken by the Armenian authorities," Zakharova said. 

To recall, on July 17, Artsakh war hero Zhirayr Sefilyan's armed supporters, who are calling themselves "Sasna Tsrer" (The Daredevils of Sasun), seized the building of the Patrol-Guard Service Regiment in Erebuni district of Yerevan.  They demand releasing Sefilyan, who was arrested on June 20 on suspicion of acquisition and keeping of weapons and ammunition. They also demand Serzh Sargsyan's resignation along with establishment of government of national confidence.  

According to the Special Investigative Service of Armenia, Sefilyan and his supporters were planning to seize buildings of state importance in early April. Two-month arrest has been chosen as a measure of restraint against Sefilyan, however, his supporters think the case is a frame-up and the arrest is political persecution for his political views, activities and statements about the territorial losses the Armenian side suffered during the April war.