Pochaiv Lavra reports details of searches conducted by police and SBU

Holy Dormition Pochayiv Lavra at sunset, Ternopil region. Photo: zaxid.net

On October 14, 2025, the administration of the Holy Dormition Pochaiv Lavra published an official statement on the monastery’s website clarifying details of the searches conducted by police and SBU officers on October 8.

The Lavra emphasized that “a great deal of conflicting and often false information” was circulating in the media regarding the incident. According to the brethren, the investigative actions began around 10:30 a.m., when an investigator from the Kremenets District Police Department arrived at the monastery accompanied by SBU operatives. Representatives of the Lavra stated that the investigator was granted “unrestricted access to all premises and facilities,” though at the outset he prohibited video recording of the proceedings.

The statement notes that the investigator paid particular attention to the office of the Lavra’s attorney. Although the lawyer presented all documents confirming his lawful use of the premises, the investigator decided to carry out a search without a separate court order and without the presence of a representative from the Ternopil Regional Bar Council.

The Lavra reported that around 4:20 p.m. the investigative actions resumed without the participation of monastery representatives. Following the investigator’s orders, police officers sawed through the latch on the economic gates to enter the inner courtyard. These events coincided with the start of the evening service, which, as noted, caused tension among the faithful and seminary students.

The administration of the Pochaiv Lavra expressed gratitude to all who are praying for the monastery and following the situation: "We are presenting an objective account of that day’s events and thank all the faithful for their prayerful support,” the statement reads.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that the Pochaiv Lavra had called for a strict fast ahead of the upcoming UOC court hearing.

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