Police say they are investigating "hooliganism" at Cherkasy UOC cathedral

A UOC believer injured by the attackers in Cherkasy. Photo: National Police

The police in the Cherkasy region have launched a criminal investigation into the hooliganism at the St. Michael's Cathedral of the UOC. According to the National Police, "the incident occurred on the morning of October 17 between believers."

“Police responded to the event and entered the information into the Unified Register of Pre-Trial Investigations. As the police found out, a group of individuals committed hooligan acts on the grounds and inside the church, resulting in bodily injuries to several citizens,” the statement said.

It is also noted that the police allegedly arrived at the scene immediately and questioned the participants in the conflict. Law enforcement officers are identifying witnesses and eyewitnesses of the incident, as well as reviewing video footage shared on social media.

“All the circumstances of the incident are being investigated by detectives from the Cherkasy District Police Department within the framework of a criminal case initiated under Part 4 of Article 296 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (hooliganism),” the department added.

Believers from the scene sent UOJ videos showing the behavior of the police during the violent assault by people in camouflage and balaclavas. The police remained inactive and stayed on the sidelines while believers were sprayed with tear gas and beaten.

As reported by the UOJ, the raiders in Cherkasy opened fire on UOC believers.

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