Trial of Abbakum Monastery monks continues in Nicosia

On October 14, 2026, the trial regarding the Abbakum Monastery scandal continued at the Nicosia Criminal Court. The defense team for the lead defendant, Monk Nektarios, cross-examined prosecution witness Father Dionysios Koptidis, focusing on financial allegations involving €790,000 found in monastery safes and the circumstances surrounding signed statements and complaints filed against the clergy. The proceedings also touched upon allegations of sexual misconduct and the handling of monastery assets during their transfer to the Tamasos Metropolis.

The defense announced plans to call Metropolitan Isaias to testify. During the hearing, references were made to the alleged involvement of high-profile figures in the interrogation of the monks, including the president of ELAM, a former police chief, an intelligence service (KYP) officer, and a local businessman. These disclosures have significantly increased public scrutiny of the case.

The current proceedings examine the procedural legitimacy of the financial evidence collected and the ecclesiastical authority exercised by the Bishop over the monastery. The case is ongoing, with future sessions expected to delve further into the testimonies of the high-profile witnesses mentioned by the defense.