Czech authorities release ROC Metropolitan Hilarion (Alfeyev)
After the ROC hierarch was released, the authorities brought no charges against him.
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.
