Head of UOC-MP Sumy diocese under SSU’s investigation for inciting religious hatred

The SSU has collected evidence of unlawful activities of the head of Sumy diocese of moscow patriarchate’s Ukrainian Orthodox Church. The metropolitan is involved in inciting inter-confessional hatred in Ukraine.

According to the investigation, the cleric insulted religious feelings of believers of other faiths during his sermons and in videos on his social media pages.

In this way, his actions created conditions for interfaith hatred.

The SSU-initiated examination confirmed the suspect’s illegal actions.

Based on the evidence, the cleric was served a notice of suspicion under Article 161.1 of the CCU (violation of equality of citizens based on their religious beliefs).

The investigation is underway.

The SSU Office in Sumy region carried out the operational and investigative activities jointly with the National Police under the procedural supervision of the regional Prosecutor’s Office.