Priest testifies about monks’ questioning and money in Avakoum monastery fraud trial
Father Dionysios Koptides told the Nicosia criminal court about monks’ questioning, an alleged admission of guilt and two safes said to hold more than €790,000.
Nicosia, Cyprus. A priest testified on Wednesday in the Avakoum monastery fraud trial, describing procedures at the Tamasos metropolis, the questioning of monks, their confessions and references to large sums of money described as “black”.
Testimony on monastery activities
Father Dionysios Koptides told the Nicosia criminal court that bishop Isaias had informed him of “suspicious activities” at the monastery. He said 16 individuals were taking items from the monastery.
He also described the arrival of Porfyrios at the metropolis, saying the monk appeared “anxious” and asked to meet the bishop. Nektarios arrived afterwards, along with other monks.
Charges against the monks
Nektarios and Porfyrios are on trial on charges including conspiracy to defraud, forgery and the use of false documents, theft by proxy, handling stolen goods, money laundering, interfering with judicial proceedings and submitting fraudulent tax returns.
Money and alleged admission
Dionysios said money was being placed in two safes. He had been told that one contained more than €700,000 and the other more than €90,000, with the money described as “black”.
During the procedure, Nektarios allegedly admitted guilt and requested a transfer to a monastery abroad to avoid being deposed.
Dionysios quoted Nektarios as saying: “Save me, my Lord, and I will leave tomorrow morning.”
The bishop refused the transfer, saying he could not move the problem elsewhere. A written confession was then drawn up and signed by Nektarios.
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