**Monks’ Objection Rejected as Trial Continues**
Nicosia, Cyprus - The criminal court in Nicosia has dismissed a legal objection raised by the defense team representing monks Nektarios and Porfyrios, who are currently on trial for alleged financial fraud linked to the Avakoum monastery. The court's ruling came on Monday as the proceedings continue, with both defendants pleading not guilty to a series of serious charges.
The charges against the monks include conspiracy to defraud, forgery, the use of false documents, theft by proxy, handling stolen goods, money laundering, interfering with judicial proceedings, and submitting fraudulent tax returns. The case gained attention after authorities uncovered approximately €800,000 in cash during their investigation, alongside allegations of fabricated miracles and CCTV footage depicting prohibited sexual activities.
During the trial, the defense attorneys argued that on March 5, 2024, a group of individuals wearing hoods unlawfully entered the monastery after hours and removed various items, which were later found at the Tamasos bishopric. The defense claimed these items were subsequently obtained by the police and requested a "trial within a trial" to determine the legality of the evidence collection. However, the court rejected this motion, stating that the defense could challenge the evidence as the trial progresses.
On Monday, the court addressed a new objection from the defense concerning the admissibility of evidence presented by a police officer, a key witness for the prosecution. The defense contended that the evidence was obtained unlawfully and questioned the integrity of the chain of custody for the items in question. The court dismissed this objection, indicating that the defendants' rights would not be violated by the presentation of the evidence at this stage. However, the court clarified that it was not making a final decision on the admissibility of the evidence, allowing the defense to contest it during the ongoing trial.
Lead prosecutor Vasilis Bissas informed the court that the seized cash remains in the custody of the police, specifically with the rapid response unit known as Mmad. Instead of presenting the cash itself, the prosecution provided a receipt confirming police possession of the funds, to which the defense raised no objections.
The trial is set to resume on July 22, when the prosecution plans to call a new witness to testify. The proceedings are closely monitored, given the serious nature of the allegations and the involvement of religious figures in the case. As the trial unfolds, it remains to be seen how the court will address the various legal challenges and the evidence presented by both sides.