Trial of Osios Avvakoum monastery monks continues in Nicosia

The criminal trial against monks Nektarios and Porfyrios, accused in connection with the Osios Avvakoum monastery case, continued on September 7, 2026, at the Permanent Assize Court in Nicosia. The proceedings focused on the testimony of five prosecution witnesses who detailed financial contributions made to the monks.

Witness Marina Tomazou testified that she developed a relationship of trust with Father Nektarios starting around 2008 and continuing through his service in Fterikoudi. She stated that the monk frequently cited debts related to the construction of the monastery to solicit funds. According to police data presented in court, she made 36 transfers totaling €4,620 to Nektarios's personal Bank of Cyprus account, believing the money would fund the construction. Other witnesses reported paying for icons and a reliquary, claiming these items were either never produced or that they received no clear update regarding the status of their contributions.

The case stems from allegations of financial mismanagement and suspicious behavior by the clergy involved. The court is currently examining the flow of donations and the accountability of the monks regarding the intended use of these funds. The legal process is ongoing with further testimony from witnesses expected as the trial continues.