Pole arrested for desecrating sanctuary in Medjugorje – detention extended by two months
A court in Bosnia and Herzegovina has extended the detention of Bartłomiej K., a Polish citizen, by a further two months. The Pole is accused of desecrating the sanctuary in Medjugorje in July.
Detention extended for Pole accused of attack on Medjugorje sanctuary
A court in Bosnia and Herzegovina has decided to extend detention for a Polish citizen suspected of desecrating the sanctuary in Medjugorje. The preventative measure remains in force until 27 October or until the court issues a new ruling. As reported on Tuesday by the news portal wiadomosci.wp.pl, the decision concerns Bartłomiej K., who was detained between July and August.
The prosecution sought an extension of detention, citing the risk of the suspect fleeing the country and a genuine possibility of re-offending. The prosecutor noted during the hearing that the man "meticulously planned the attack on the Medjugorje sanctuary". The investigating officer added that although Bartłomiej K. admitted to the alleged acts during interrogation, he expressed no remorse.
The Pole has been charged with damaging sacred buildings, inciting hatred on the grounds of nationality and religion, and creating a public danger.
The defence counsel for the accused presented a different account of her client's motivation. According to the defence's account, Bartłomiej K. did not wish to harm anyone, and his actions were intended to draw public attention to alleged fraud perpetrated by persons claiming to be clairvoyants in Medjugorje. "The suspect stated during interrogation that his intention was not to harm anyone," the lawyer said.
The incident occurred in July. The man reportedly set fire in the immediate vicinity of the external altar of St James Church. On a nearby statue of the Virgin Mary, he placed a sign reading "Devil in a skirt" in Polish and English, and left a banner with the names of people proclaiming the apparitions in Medjugorje next to it. On the banner he added: "... these are fraudsters, I have evidence".
Medjugorje is one of the most famous Catholic pilgrimage centres in the region. In September 2024, the Vatican officially approved public devotion there and the organisation of pilgrimages, although the Holy See has not yet ruled on the supernatural character of the apparitions.
Source: Google News PL — Crime (pl)