YEREVAN. – Armenian police must immediately provide explanation regarding reports of violence against journalists by plainclothes police officers, Amenian Ombudsman's office said in a statement.

As noted in a statement, the office received numerous reports of violence against journalists, as well as obstruction of their work. “According to reports, they were policemen dressed as civilians,” the statement reads.

All reports are being studied, the Ombudsman office encourages law enforcement agencies to immediately start investigation in order to identify those responsible.

“We ask all citizens who own videos regarding violence against journalists of 1in.am, azatutyun.am, armlur.am, a1plus.am, Armenia, or involvement of the police,  to hand over materials to the Ombudsman’s office. Copyright and confidentiality is guaranteed.” 

The reports of detention of citizens and violence against them have been received, too

Following a warning to clear the area in front of the regiment captured by an armed group, police used special means on Friday evening. The journalists were also affected. During the dispersal of protesters in Sari Tagh district of Yerevan, athe camera of the Armenian News - NEWS.am correspondent has been confiscated. People in civilian clothes tried to use force.