Avakoum monastery trial witness challenged over credibility at Nicosia court

Nicosia, Cyprus. A prosecution witness in the Avakoum monastery trial was accused of lying to the court and concealing a separate sexual harassment case during cross-examination at Nicosia criminal court on Monday. The witness, referred to as “father B”, rejected the allegations and said the separate matter remained an accusation.

Credibility challenged

Defence lawyer Efstathios Efstathiou told “father B” that he had told “many lies” in an effort to conceal information about himself. He referred to a sexual harassment case the witness is separately facing before the district court, arguing that the witness had attempted to hide it and that it affected his credibility.

“Father B” said the matter was not an established fact and that the court would determine what he had to say. He said the “supposed evidence against him” was intended to portray him as unreliable.

Questions over card and purchases

Efstathiou also questioned the witness about a birthday card he had given to a 14-year-old girl at the monastery. “Father B” confirmed that he remembered writing the card but declined to provide further details.

The defence lawyer also raised purchases including girdles, a cap, vestments and shoes, suggesting that they were personal gifts from brother Nektarios. The witness disagreed, saying the items were necessities connected to his role and that Nektarios, as abbot, managed the monastery’s funds.

Documents examined

The cross-examination also addressed signatures on documents submitted to police, including signatures attributed to a boy identified as “M.P.” and his 14-year-old sister. Both had volunteered at the monastery.

The hearing is due to continue on Wednesday, when Efstathiou said he would return to another section of the evidence.