According to prosecutors, two Polish priests have been arrested on charges of child sex abuse in the diocese of Sosnowiec, which has been plagued by a series of scandals involving its clergy. The investigation into sexual abuse was launched after evidence surfaced during a homicide-suicide case involving two other priests from the same diocese. Three men, including two Catholic priests from Sosnowiec, have been detained in connection with the abuse allegations. Prosecution spokesman Jakub Seweryn confirmed that the two priests are facing charges of sexual offences against minors, while a former priest has been charged with fraud.
Prosecutors have identified the victims but have refrained from providing further details about the case in order to protect those affected. The scandal-ridden diocese made headlines last year when its bishop resigned following allegations that a priest had organized an orgy with a sex worker, resulting in a medical emergency. Other sex scandals have also been reported in the diocese, such as the dismissal of a seminary director for allegedly engaging in sexual activities at a gay nightclub.
In response to the ongoing scandals, the new bishop of Sosnowiec announced the establishment of two commissions to investigate the issues. Poland, a predominantly Catholic country, has witnessed a series of sex scandals within the Church in recent years, including cases of abuse against minors. The Holy See has accepted the resignations of two Polish bishops implicated in covering up sexual abuse cases. Pope Francis has emphasized a “zero-tolerance” policy towards sexual assault in the Church, prioritizing efforts to combat such misconduct.
Published – October 03, 2024 03:40 am IST
