Police arrested a 29-year-old fake monk in Ioannina in the region of Epirus on suspicion of attempted fraud after he was found to have been impersonating a monastic to solicit money from the public.

The case came to light following a complaint filed by the Holy Metropolis of Ioannina, which reported that an unknown man had recently been approaching citizens either dressed in clerical robes or in plain clothes, claiming to be collecting donations for the construction of monastic cells — all without the knowledge or authorization of the local Church.

Officers from the Ioannina Criminal Investigation Sub-Directorate identified and located the suspect in the city on Sunday afternoon. A search of his person and residence yielded an extensive array of confiscated items that pointed to a broader pattern of deception.

Among the items seized were a semi-automatic air pistol with two magazines, plastic pellets and a propellant gas canister, two pairs of metal handcuffs, a 21-centimeter knife, and a fake metal police badge.

Authorities also recovered two stamps bearing the details of a police officer and a hieromonk, respectively, and an assortment of monastic garments. Investigators are now examining whether the suspect also impersonated a police officer to intimidate his victims.

The 29-year-old fake monk was brought before the Ioannina Court of First Instance Prosecutor, while the preliminary inquiry continues.