Moscow Patriarchate church priest detained for using church as an arms dealership — SBU

The priest stored enemy arsenals in two underground chambers, one of which was located directly on the premises of a new UOC-MP church under construction in Kherson. He was caught "red-handed" trying to sell two Igla portable anti-aircraft missile systems along with ammunition. The investigation also revealed that the priest was "offering" to purchase ammunition for RPG-7 portable anti-tank grenade launchers for $3,000 (115,000 UAH) and was contacting potential customers through his personal connections, including those in criminal circles.

The infiltration of weapons into the hands of criminal elements could potentially escalate the internal situation in Kherson, especially considering provocative attempts by Russian special services, said the SBU.

During the search of the church construction site and in the basement of a nine-story building, the following weapons and ammunition were found and confiscated:

·         Five rounds and two explosive charges for grenade launchers

·         Kalashnikov machine gun and automatic rifle with ammunition

·         Three F-1 combat grenades

·         About 7,000 rounds of ammunition for automatic weapons, including large caliber

The suspect was charged with violating Article 263 Part 1 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (illegal handling of weapons, ammunition or explosive substances). The court remanded him in custody.

The Investigation is underway to determine all the circumstances of the crime. He faces up to seven years in prison.

All seized weapons and ammunition were sent for forensic examination and will then be handed over to the Ukrainian Armed Forces.