Roman Catholic Church Takes Action Against Priest Accused of Drug Trafficking
A Spanish priest from Don Benito, a town in Extremadura, has been temporarily suspended by the Roman Catholic Church following accusations of selling drugs, including the erectile dysfunction medication Viagra. The diocese of Plasencia, responsible for his parish, announced the suspension after he was detained on suspicion of “trafficking narcotic substances”.
Temporary Removal from Ministry
The priest, identified as Don Alfonso Raúl Masa Soto, has been provisionally released by the investigating judge. The diocese expressed its “pain and dismay” over the situation and decided to temporarily remove him from the public exercise of the ministry and his role as parish priest while awaiting clarification of the events.
Alleged Involvement in Drug Trafficking
Reports suggest that the priest was involved in trafficking Viagra and other aphrodisiac substances along with another individual identified as his boyfriend. The duo allegedly used a rented home to store the products, leading to shock and disbelief among the parish community.
Legal Defense and Ongoing Investigations
Despite the accusations, the priest’s lawyer maintains his client’s innocence, citing a lack of evidence incriminating him. The incident comes shortly after the arrest of a pastor in Connecticut on drug-related charges, underscoring the shocking nature of these events within religious communities.