A 41-year-old man from Białystok has been detained by police in connection with the desecration of religious symbols in the suburban town of Choroszcz. The accused is alleged to have vandalized roadside crosses and a chapel featuring a statue of the Virgin Mary.
In late July, reports emerged of a damaged Virgin Mary statue in Kościuki, with its hands, head, and face mutilated. Additional reports highlighted the vandalism of a roadside cross. The suspect has been charged with four counts of public desecration and is under police supervision with restrictions on approaching religious sites.
Previous Incidents
The man was recently involved in a similar case in Białystok’s archcathedral, where he allegedly distributed offensive leaflets and spat on a cross. The local parish priest had previously reported these acts to the police.
Church’s Response
In response, the Białystok Metropolitan Curia issued a statement condemning the acts as a profound disrespect to religious values and a violation of religious freedom.