Thessaloniki: Russian Monk Arrested for Illegal Stay in Greece

A Russian monk was arrested at Thessaloniki's "Macedonia" Airport for residing illegally in Greece for the past three years. Reportedly, the monk had been living at the Monastery of Saint Panteleimon on Mount Athos.

The monk was apprehended while attempting to travel to Istanbul en route to Moscow. It was discovered that he lacked the necessary documents for legal residence in Greece.

In his defense, the monk claimed he arrived in Greece in early 2022 with a two-month permit, which expired. He pleaded ignorance of the offense and stated he intended to return to his homeland but couldn't find a ticket.

The Thessaloniki Single-Member Misdemeanor Court found him guilty and sentenced him to two years in prison and a fine of €5,000, without suspension. The monk stated that he wishes to return to Russia voluntarily.