SBU detains antisemite calling to tear down banners for Jewish holidays

The detention operation. Photo: Facebook

During a joint operation, the Security Service of Ukraine, together with the National Police and the State Border Guard Service, exposed an online agitator who had been publicly stirring up antisemitic sentiment through social media.

According to the SBU Office in Zakarpattia Region, the suspect is a 31-year-old resident of the Mukachevo district who had previously already been served with suspicion notices in connection with another offense. He called on “like-minded people” to carry out physical reprisals against members of the Jewish community. The man also urged the destruction of outdoor advertising banners mentioning Jewish holidays and commemorative dates. In spreading this destructive content, he further threatened violence against anyone who “didn’t like” his actions.

An expert examination initiated by the SBU confirmed the presence of criminal elements in the detainee’s public statements. Based on the evidence collected, investigators notified the man that he is under suspicion under Part 1 of Article 161 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine – violation of citizens’ equality based on their religious beliefs or ethnic origin. He now faces up to three years in prison.

Ukraine’s chief rabbi responded promptly to the detention. On his Facebook page, he expressed gratitude to the security agencies for their principled stance in combating xenophobia.

“I want to thank the Security Service of Ukraine, the National Police, the State Border Guard Service, and the prosecutor’s office for the swift exposure of an online agitator who was inciting antisemitic sentiment in Zakarpattia... Thank you for your clear and principled response!” the Jewish community’s spiritual leader said.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that Zelensky had announced the dismantling of an “agent network” within religious organizations.

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