Two criminal cases have been officially filed against Metropolitan Isaias of Tamasos, marking a dramatic new chapter in the ongoing ecclesiastical controversy surrounding the Moni Avvakoum scandal. The cases follow months of mounting scrutiny, including surveillance allegations and financial irregularities within the diocese.
According to police sources, the Legal Service of the Republic instructed immediate legal proceedings against the bishop. One of the cases concerns alleged economic offences, while the second is linked to the unauthorised installation of surveillance cameras at the Monastery of Avvakoum.
In a written statement, Metropolitan Isaias reaffirmed his readiness to face the accusations, insisting he has yet to receive any formal documents informing him of the exact nature of the charges. “Until today, I have received no documentation that would clarify the precise behaviour of which I’m accused, and I will respond formally if summoned by the justice system,” he said.
He further declared his commitment to transparency and internal reform within the Church, adding that his efforts have been guided by canonical law and the statutes of the Church of Cyprus. “I am certain that the full truth will soon be revealed once again,” he concluded.
Commenting on the legal developments, Archbishop Georgios reaffirmed the presumption of innocence. Speaking on RIK, he confirmed that the cases had reached the courts but cautioned against premature judgement. He also noted that the Ecumenical Patriarchate is expected to rule on the appeal by former Abbot Tychikos- who was removed in connection with the same scandal- by August, with preparatory material to be distributed in early July.
The Tamasos bishopric has been under public and ecclesiastical pressure since the original fallout at Moni Avvakoum, a controversy that led to internal power struggles, allegations of surveillance abuse, and growing calls for accountability.
Also read: Tychikos appeal to Ecumenical Patriarch suspends Synod ruling
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel.
