Armor Steal inconsistently considered as damage and non-damage

Platform, device version and operating system:
Android

Screenshot or image:

What you were expecting to happen, and what actually happened:
I assumed Sparkinator’s spell would not be considered as Damage (Steals Armor), which was confirmed by casting it vs barriered troops, whereas the barrier was unaffected and the armor was duly stolen.

However, in a previous battle, upon stealing armor from 3 troops that submerge when receiving damage, (Aquatic trait) all 3 troops ended up submerged.

How often does this happen? When did it begin happening?
Noticed it during Journey event, I’m assuming happens always but I seldom use Sparkinator unless restrictions nudge me that way.

Steps to make it happen again
Use Sparkinator Vs troops with Barrier and Vs troops with Aquatic trait, to observe the apparent inconsistency.

:vulcan_salute: