The Metropolis of Zagreb-Ljubljana has issued a strong condemnation following a recent robbery incident that occurred on Saturday, February 17, 2024, in Bjelovar. During the afternoon hours, an unknown perpetrator forcefully entered the parish home where Father Stefan Maksimović resides with his family, and stole money and jewelry belonging to them.
Fortunately, at the time of the robbery, Father Stefan’s family was not present in the apartment. However, this act of theft, occurring less than two months after the defacement of the Bjelovar Orthodox church with Ustasha and neo-Nazi symbols, has instilled fear and a sense of insecurity not only within the priest’s family but also among the Orthodox community and other residents of Bjelovar.
In response to these distressing events, the Metropolis calls upon state and police authorities to swiftly identify and arrest the perpetrators responsible for both incidents. Additionally, urgent measures are urged to be taken to ensure the safety and well-being of Father Stefan Maksimović and his family, as well as to safeguard the broader community against further acts of criminality and intimidation.
Source and photo: Serbian Orthodox Church