Viana- Three nationals have been arrested by National Police officers for trying to steal the image of Our Lady of Muxima from inside the Church of St Francis of Assisi in Viana.
According to the Criminal Investigation spokesperson, Fernando Carvalho, the people involved, posing as believers, attended a religious ceremony and later hid inside the church until there was no one left to steal the religious statue.
One of the perpetrators, in possession of a hammer and a scope, went to the safe where the tithes and offerings are kept, tried to break the lock, but was unsuccessful.
With the support of his associates, he then went to the grotto where the statue of Our Lady of Muxima was, however when they were removing the statue, they were surprised by the parish watchman who asked them about it and, without justification, they fled.
They have been charged with the offence of criminal association and attempted grand larceny. HDC/PA/DAN/AMP
