Greek authorities have uncovered shocking revelations about the fake priest, known as “Father Parthenios,” who was recently arrested for his involvement in a nationwide drug trafficking network.
The 46-year-old cleric, a former model and YouTuber who styled himself as the “Archbishop of Old Calendarists,” allegedly burned cannabis as incense during church rituals, while using recipes and religious terminology as coded language to communicate with members of the criminal network. For example, “fanouropita” referred to raw cannabis, “candle” to cocaine, and terms like “pasta” and “bread” also indicated cannabis.
Father Parthenios and six co-defendants, including two other self-styled Old Calendarist priests, appeared before a magistrate charged with multiple felonies. All were remanded in custody.
In addition to the priests, two other alleged members of the network were also detained. Authorities say the criminal enterprise not only trafficked drugs but was also involved in human smuggling. The son of a 52-year-old alleged ringleader, who is due to appear before investigators on November 12, also faced questioning.
The use of cannabis in religious ceremonies and coded communications underscores the audacity and sophistication of the network, which reportedly operated across much of Greece.
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