The SSU exposed the head of one of the dioceses of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of moscow Patriarchate in Vinnytsia region, who justified russia’s aggression and incited interfaith hatred.

The investigation established that even after the start of russia’s full-scale invasion, the clergyman supported the kremlin’s policy and approved of russia’s actions.

On his own Internet resource, the metropolitan posted publications inciting hatred between confessions.

The SSU initiated an expert’s examination, which confirmed the unlawful nature of the suspect’s actions.

During the searches of his residence and church buildings, the law enforcers seized:

• computer equipment and mobile terminals;
• printed material with pro-russian content and propaganda literature;
• other evidence, which have been sent to forensics.

Criminal proceeding was opened under Article 161 of the CCU (violation of equality of citizens based on their racial, national, religious affiliation, religious beliefs, disability and other grounds). The detainee will be served a notice of suspicion in the nearest future.

The pre-trial investigation is ongoing.

The SSU Office in Vinnytsia Region exposed and documented the unlawful activity jointly with the National Police investigators under the procedural supervision of the regional prosecutor’s office.