Tension is rising not only outside Gyumri City Hall but also inside. A scuffle occurred between employees and masked security forces.

City residents are gathering in front of the city hall, where a large number of police officers are present. A short while ago, two more buses with police forces arrived.

Law enforcement has closed the city hall’s entrance door and is not allowing people, including city hall employees, to enter or leave.

Those gathered are whistling at the police and shouting “shame.”

According to city hall employees, Mayor Vardan Ghukasyan is inside the building, and guards have been posted at his door. He has effectively been isolated, and the employees gathered by the door fear that the authorities intend to arrest the mayor.

Earlier, NEWS.am reported that officers from the National Security Service entered Gyumri City Hall early in the morning.

Masked special forces have forbidden employees from entering or leaving. Employees said they still have no information about the purpose of the operation.

The Anti‑Corruption Committee told NEWS.am only the following: “Within the framework of a case under investigation at the Anti‑Corruption Committee, investigative actions are being carried out at the Gyumri municipality. Additional information will be provided.”

On October 7, Gyumri Mayor Vardan Ghukasyan reported that he and his family members were being persecuted. He also appealed to voters:

“I address my voters and all opposition parties: I will hold my ground to the end, I will not break, without a doubt — you know my character. The more they do such things, the bolder we will become. Use your voice to protect me, do not abandon me — I will keep you informed. You must stay in contact with me; any encroachment, we will notify you. As soon as I inform you, you stand by my side. Anti‑democratic behavior forces me to carry out stronger activities against them within the law, undoubtedly.”