The SSU came with searches to the employees of the media defending the interests of the UOC

On March 12, 2024, the Security Service of Ukraine conducted searches of employees of the Union of Orthodox Journalists and the First Cossack. This was reported on the pages of the mentioned media in social networks.

“On March 12, representatives of the Security Service of Ukraine came to the employees of the UOJ. Computer equipment and phones were seized from them. So far, the law enforcers have not brought any charges”, – stated in the message on the website of the UOJ.

In addition, the employees of the Pervyi Cossack channel were also searched. According to representatives of the publication, the SSU carried out “activities” even at those who have not cooperated with them for a long time.

“To some people who work or once, years ago, worked at First Cossack, also came with searches. Even to those who have not been with us for a long time. So, this is now the largest-scale attack on freedom of speech and the rights of the UOC believers. We are finally told that we do not have the right to vote and the right to our voice”, – written in the Telegram-channel of the “First Cossack”.

It is worth noting that the “Union of Orthodox Journalists” and “First Cossack” are among the few media outlets defending the interests of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in the information space. It is not yet known what exactly the employees of these media outlets are incriminated with and what the details of the searches are.