Monks Challenge Asset Freeze Amid Money Laundering Probe
In a recent turn of events, the serene life at the Osiou Avakoum monastery has been disrupted by a legal battle. Three monks have taken to the Nicosia District Court, seeking to overturn the seizure of €807,000 in cash and the freezing of their bank accounts. The funds were confiscated as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged money laundering activities at the monastery.
Their lawyer, Andriana Klaedes, presented the appeal with a strong demand for the return of both the money and property belonging to the monks. The appeal challenges the basis on which the orders to freeze assets were obtained, suggesting that the police did not present all pertinent facts to the court. The monks maintain that a full disclosure would have prevented the issuance of such orders.
According to their defense, the seized money was received as part of a legitimate property donation. They assert that the funds were earmarked for constructing a multi-purpose building in Lythrodontas, which would serve as a residence for the abbot, other monks, and clergy, as well as house an educational center.
Supporting their claims, a sworn affidavit from an individual purported to be one of the property’s previous owners was submitted to the court. This document was accompanied by evidence indicating that all taxes on the land sale had been duly paid. The petition further clarifies that the property in question was sold six years prior to the monastery’s construction and was not financed by contributions from the faithful or any other sources.
To bolster their case, four additional sworn statements from individuals were presented, attesting to other donations made to the monastery that account for the cash under scrutiny. The court has scheduled a hearing for April 26 to deliberate on these matters.
Meanwhile, another controversy has surfaced involving land in Lythrodontas owned by the monastery. It was recently discovered that the monks had been keeping reindeer on this property without legal authorization, adding another layer of complexity to their ongoing legal challenges.
