Bishop Joanikije of Budimlye-Niksic was set free after three days in detention.
Bishop Joanikije of Budimlye-Niksic was arrested by Montenegrin authorities along with eight priests after a procession of the icon of St. George was held despite restrictive measures due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Moreover, their arrest has sparked tensions between the Orthodox Serbian Church and the Montenegrin government. Protests in support of those arrested have taken place in several cities across the country, with police making arrests and detaining protesters.
Hundreds of people gathered in the city of Niksik last night in order to meet the Bishop and the eight priests after their release. Finally, Bishop Joanikije thanked those gathered “for their support and love.”