Ciprian Mega indicted for staging arson to simulate persecution

Ciprian Mega, a former priest and director, has been indicted by prosecutors in Bihor, Romania, for his alleged role in staging an arson attack on a vehicle owned by his wife’s company. Prosecutors claim the fire, which involved 15 liters of gasoline, was orchestrated to create a false narrative of political and religious persecution to aid Mega in his ongoing conflict with the Orthodox Diocese of Oradea.

Mega is accused of complicity in destruction, instigation to intellectual forgery, use of false documents, and disclosure of non-public information. The investigation indicates he collaborated with a priest based in France and a local police officer to carry out the plan. Additionally, Mega faces charges for allegedly obtaining a fraudulent medical leave to avoid a disciplinary committee while traveling to attend the inauguration of President Trump.

The indictment also highlights Mega’s ties to pro-Russian figures, including communications with leaders of the Russian Orthodox Church.