Czech authorities release ROC Metropolitan Hilarion (Alfeyev)
Metropolitan Hilarion. Photo: open sources
On May 26, 2026, Metropolitan Hilarion (Alfeyev) was released from custody in Czechia, with no charges brought against him or the driver accompanying him. This was reported by Metropolitan Hilarion’s Telegram channel.
Both were released without any restrictions – without bail, a travel ban, or any other obligations. According to the published statement, an expert examination confirmed that the substance found in the vehicle was prohibited, but the question of how it got into the car remains open. The defense pointed to key unresolved circumstances: the source of the anonymous tip-off, the way the substance entered the vehicle, the procedure used in the search, and the handling of evidence. Metropolitan Hilarion categorically denies any involvement in the illegal possession or transport of prohibited substances.
After his release, the hierarch thanked everyone who had prayed for him and supported him during these days.
As the UOJ reported, Czech authorities had earlier arrested Metropolitan Hilarion (Alfeyev) on suspicion related to the discovery of a prohibited substance in a vehicle.
Read also
Greece signs memorandum on protection of Jerusalem Patriarchate's shrines
Next week, the Greek Parliament will ratify a document on the protection of the cultural heritage of the Jerusalem Patriarchate.
Greek bishop calls imposition of same-sex marriage a threat
Metropolitan Seraphim of Kythera urged families to become a “domestic church” amid threats to the Christian family in Greek laws and school curricula.
Patriarch Bartholomew arrives in Budapest for opening of Orthodox center
The Ecumenical Patriarch has arrived in Hungary, where he will preside over the consecration of the Orthodox center "Phanarion."
OCU raiders stage attack on seized church in Kyiv, media
OCU "hierarch" Serhiy Horobtsov published a provocative post online regarding St. John's Church in Bykivnia seized by his people.