NGO: UOJ journalists and UOC lawyers were searched as part of the same case
SBU employee conducts a search. Archive photo. Photo: SBU
Speaking on the YouTube channel of the NGO Public Advocacy, Archpriest Nikita Chekman explained that the searches in his law firm, at the Center for Legal Protection of the UOC, and among UOJ journalists all took place under one criminal investigation.
"They said that the searches were conducted based on Part 3 of Article 233 of the Criminal Procedure Code, in cases of emergency," noted Fr. Nikita Chekman.
He emphasized that besides the fact that such searches can only be conducted when there is a threat to someone's life, etc., there is also a specific procedure for attorneys. This procedure was not followed, and moreover, in one of the law firm offices, SBU employees broke down the door.
In response to clarification from the President of the NGO Public Advocacy, Oleg Denisov, regarding the arrests of UOJ journalists on that day, Fr. Nikita noted that all investigative actions by the SBU were carried out as part of the same criminal case.
As reported by the UOJ, UOC lawyers recorded a video testimony for international organizations.
Read also
Pat. Bartholomew Arrives in NYC
A patriarchal doxology was held at the St. Nicholas National Shrine early Thursday afternoon, with former Vice President Mike Pence making an appearance.
National Antiochian Orthodox Choir to Perform at Carnegie Hall
Those who wish to join the choir as singers must submit their applications by this Sunday, September 21.
Orthodoxy Grows in West with Baptisms in Chile and Netherlands
Converts were received into the Romanian Orthodox Metropolia of the Americas and the Serbian Orthodox Eparchy of Western Europe, respectively.
Theophilos Greets Kirill After Snubbing Bartholomew
The Patriarch of Jerusalem met with the Patriarch of Moscow during a conference in Kazakhstan. Notably, Theophilos avoided meeting the Patriarch of Constantinple during his recent visit to Istanbul.
Abp. Alexei: How to Pray as a Family
"If a family prays together," His Eminence said, "the household becomes a little tower in that vineyard."
Pat. Bartholomew Honors U.S. Traditions, Greek Heritage in Washington Visit
Bartholomew lays wreath at Arlington, meets with U.S. leaders, and blesses faithful in Virginia.