Avakoum abbot faces probe over €1.3 million in undeclared funds

Police Spokesman Christos Andreou announced that more arrests are possible and the Greek authorities may be called in to assist with investigations related to properties, following the eight-day detention of Abbot Nektarios of the Holy Monastery of Saint Avakoum.

Speaking on the "ALFA Kalimera" show, Andreou stated, "We are now entering a phase of extensive investigations based on recently secured testimonies. Our goal is to gather all necessary evidence to fully understand the offenses under scrutiny."

Andreou highlighted that one of the charges against Abbot Nektarios involves interference in judicial proceedings, an offense he is suspected of committing on multiple occasions recently.

When asked about the involvement of Greek authorities, Andreou confirmed, "If needed, we will seek assistance from Greek authorities regarding specific properties. If such actions haven't already been initiated, our investigators will pursue them to include all relevant information in the criminal case."

Regarding the possibility of further arrests, Andreou noted, "Nothing is excluded. The investigation is ongoing, and as we secure additional testimony and evidence, more arrests may follow."

Nicosia Court orders eight-day detention of abbot

On Tuesday, the Nicosia District Court issued an eight-day detention order for Abbot Nektarios, who is currently on leave. The Abbot faces several serious charges, including conspiracy to commit embezzlement, theft by proxy, money laundering, securing money by false representations, forgery, theft, false tax declaration, and other tax offenses.

The Tax Department's report revealed over €1,330,000 in undeclared funds linked to sales from the monastery’s confectionery shop, as well as additional undeclared amounts related to the construction of the monastery.