Repeatedly criticized for its lack of responsiveness, the Catholic Church has decided to take the lead in Colombia. She suspended "As a precautionary measure" Fifteen priests subject to a sexual assault complaint, Carlos Villabon, spokesman for the Archdiocese of Villavicencio (center), said on Friday.
The complaint dates from February 14 and was filed by a Colombian man, an adult, according to a statement from the Catholic institution. This man, whose identity has not been disclosed, has denounced "Acts contrary to sexual morality" on the part of the religious.
These facts "Have been brought to the attention of the prosecution (…), and we have made them fully available to collaborate in the investigation", continues the press release.
A reaction in accordance with Pope Francis' decree
The Colombian Church claims to have acted with its priests in accordance with “Broad outlines drawn by Pope Francis (…) (advocating) zero tolerance for sexual assaults by members of the clergy ".
A predominantly Catholic country, Colombia is preparing to celebrate a Holy Week like no other in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic, which has forced the authorities to establish compulsory confinement.
