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This is the moment a man apparently dressed a priest is caught on security camera planting an explosive device under a cloth on the altar of a historic church and fleeing as it detonates.
The incident took place on 30th July at the Santo Estanislau Parish Church in Itaiopolis, in the Brazilian state of Santa Catarina.
The church, founded in 1922 by Polish immigrants, is listed as a heritage site by both state authorities and Brazil’s National Institute of Historical and Artistic Heritage (IPHAN).
Footage shows the man entering the church alone, checking the surroundings, then lighting the fuse of an explosive and placing it on the altar before fleeing.
Moments later, the device exploded, burning a tablecloth and leaving scorch marks on the marble structure, although no major damage was caused and no injuries were reported.
The Civil Police have opened an investigation and confirmed the suspect has been identified, though his name has not yet been released.
They have not yet confirmed if the man is a member of the clergy.
Officers are gathering video footage, technical evidence, and witness statements, and a forensic examination of the site was scheduled for the following day.
The church administration said a police report had been filed and security around the venue has since been reinforced. Despite the attack, regular services are continuing as scheduled.
The suspect is being investigated for aggravated damage and desecration of a religious object. Under Article 208 of Brazil’s Penal Code, publicly defaming an act or object of religious worship can result in imprisonment of up to one year or a fine.
(Mike Leidig / newsX)
Byline Journalist: Mike Leidig
Byline Sub editor: Simona Kitanovska
Byline Spotter: Ivica Stojanovski
Byline Commisioning Editor: Mike Leidig
Byline Senior Writer: Mike Leidig
Byline Picture Editor: Zorica Stojkovik
Byline Video Editor: Aloysius Fernandes
Byline Copychecker: Marija Stojkoska
Byline Illustrator: Marija Stojkoska
Byline News Editor: Mike Leidig
Geography: Itaiópolis
Subject: Accidents, Explosion Accidents, Legal, Crime, Religion, Society
T4 Editor Story Rating: 7
T4 Editor Pic/Vid rating: 7
T4 Total rating: 7
