A 23-year-old man from Galați caused controversy after he built himself a place of worship, where he organizes religious services to which he invites the locals. Four years ago, he was detained because he claimed to be an Orthodox priest and asked for Epiphany money.
The young man’s name is Ionuț Chiriță and he even managed to build a place of worship in the Filești neighborhood of Galaţi. He says he serves with the approval of a religious association based in Vrancea County, entitled “Religious Association of the Right Worshipful Communities of the East”.
The police in Galați have started an investigation to establish his legal situation and the way in which he performs his duties and collects donations. IPJ Galati recommends citizens to exercise caution and notify the authorities in case of suspicious acts.
“Police officers from the Galati County Police Inspectorate have self-reported and are carrying out checks in order to establish the factual situation, the identity of the person in question and the circumstances in which he carries out the reported activities, as well as to order the necessary legal measures. In this context, we recommend that citizens exercise caution and notify the police bodies immediately, if they observe suspicious facts or behavior”. IPJ Galati transmitted, according to ProLider FM.
Fake priest arrested for collecting money in the name of a religious cult
In 2021, the same young man, identified as Ionuț Chiriță, was remanded in custody for fraud, falsification of documents and unlawful exercise of a profession.
Ionuţ Chiriţă told the police that he really thought he had become a priest, and the person who issued him the fake diploma sent him to collect money to build a church, where he could act as a parish priest.
“With Boboteaza I went to several people who requested me, and the account for donations is mine. I received a decision from the one who represented me with false documents to make me a church”the young man declared at that time.
Then, the authorities found in his home important sums of money and goods obtained by fraud. . Although he was placed under judicial control, Chiriță continued to ask for donations and organize religious services.
Currently, Ionuț Chiriță is active on TikTok, where he regularly posts videos inviting people to participate in the church he built.
