The Security Service of Ukraine is conducting a search at the home of Metropolitan Ionafan of Tulchyn, UOC-MP (secular name Anatoly Yeletsky).
According to Ukrainska Pravda, the news about the searches of Metropolitan Ionafan has emerged on the web. The SBU provided the details about the nature of investigation activities to Ukrainska Pravda.
"SBU officers carry out investigative and operational activities as part of criminal proceedings instituted under Article 161 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (violation of equal rights of citizens depending on their race, nationality, religious beliefs, disability and other grounds).
More detailed information will be provided later."
According to LB.ua, the Metropolitan became the SBU's focus due to his publications in the media that incite inter-confessional hostility. In addition, he is charged under Articles 111 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (high treason) and 111-1 (collaboration).
The Head of the UOC Information Department, Metropolitan Klyment, told LB.ua that he learned about the searches from the media. He also noted that Metropolitan Ionafan is being tried as a witness.
"It is known from media reports that investigative actions took place in the premises of Metropolitan Ionafan as part of proceedings under Article 161 of the Criminal Code. From the same sources, it is known that the Metropolitan himself is qualified as a witness in this proceeding. Law enforcement agencies have not yet provided any other information. Perhaps, after reviewing the relevant legal documents, there will be more information," Klyment told LB.ua.
In 2019, on the occasion of the 70th anniversary, Metropolitan Ionafan received an order of St. Seraphim of Sarov from Moscow.