Thieves break into house of Fener Greek Patriarch

ISTANBUL

Three masked thieves broke into the house of Fener Greek Patriarch Bartholomew in the Sarıyer district of Istanbul, which was protected by private security, according to reports.

The incident took place on Nov. 16 when the Patriarch was at a function for the Greek citizens and the only one housekeeper was at home when the thieves broke in, the reports said.

Police forces have launched an investigation into the incident.

It is reported that nothing was stolen from the house and the surrounding security cameras are under review.

Thieves have been identified as a result of the investigation and an operation to capture the suspects continues, according to security sources.

Patriarch Bartholomew’s residence is part of a complex in Tarabya neighborhood which is guarded by a private security company and it is still unclear how the thieves managed to enter the home without being detected.

Meanwhile, The Patriarch will attend the commemoration of St. Santa Barbara, which will take place at the Santa Barbara Tower in Izmit district of Kocaeli province on Dec. 4.