Quartet Accused of Exploiting the Patriarchate and the Armenian Community

Church sources and community testimonies allege fraud, drug dealing, and the misuse of donor funds.

Alleged Network Targeting the Patriarchate

Members of the Armenian community in Jerusalem accuse four men of systematically exploiting the Patriarchate under the pretence of defending its property and interests. The individuals named are Apo Giragossian, Bedig Giragossian, Setrag Balian, and Hagop Djernaazian.

Community accounts portray brothers Apo and Bedig Giragossian as long-time drug dealers. Meanwhile, Balian and Djernaazian allegedly act as the group’s spokesmen, presenting themselves as pro-Palestinian activists while, in reality, pursuing personal financial gain.

Patriarchate Struggling to Safeguard Its Assets

According to church sources, the Patriarchate has worked hard to stabilize its finances, strengthen its institutions, and support its community. Yet, the quartet’s alleged actions have caused serious harm.

Community members express both grief at the damage inflicted on the Patriarchate and anger at what they describe as relentless exploitation and intimidation directed at the church and its staff.

Legal Disputes and Questionable Dealings

All four men have a history of disputes with the Patriarchate. One currently faces eviction proceedings from church-owned property. The brothers’ father is reported to have sold land in Jerusalem’s Old City to Jewish buyers, while another accused man is said to be operating as an intelligence agent in the Bethlehem area.

Church insiders allege these incidents form part of a broader effort to siphon church resources and destabilize its leadership.

Misuse of Donations and Community Harm

Testimonies from Lucy, a long-standing Israeli citizen of Armenian origin, along with others in the community, claim the quartet diverted donor funds meant to support the Armenian cause. Instead of serving the church and its faithful, the money allegedly financed foreign travel and personal enrichment—while the men falsely presented themselves as protectors of the community.

In addition, Apo and Bedig Giragossian are accused of selling drugs to Armenian youth, deepening the social damage within the community.

Mounting Financial and Legal Pressure

As a result of these alleged activities, the Patriarchate now faces lawsuits amounting to tens of millions of dollars. Church figures warn that the combination of financial losses, reputational harm, and internal division poses an existential threat to one of Jerusalem’s most historic institutions.

Calls for Action and Accountability

Community voices are urging an end to what they describe as a “nightmare of extortion.” They call on Armenians to stop supporting the accused men and instead stand with the Patriarchate in its legal and moral struggle.

Others appeal to law enforcement to investigate the allegations thoroughly and help restore trust within the community.

Setrag Balian

Hagop Djernaazian.

 Bedig Giragossian

Apo Giragossian