Security cameras capture suspect igniting altar at Saint James church in Medjugorje

The footage, recorded at 4:46 am and obtained by Hercegovina.info, shows the individual walking up to the recently renovated altar, dousing the area with liquid, igniting the fire, and fleeing the scene. The exact extent of the material damage caused to the altar has not yet been officially confirmed.

This arson incident forms part of a broader wave of vandalism and desecration targeting religious symbols across multiple prominent locations in Medjugorje overnight, including Apparition Hill, Cross Mountain, and the area near the Blue Cross.

Among the reported acts, a statue of the Virgin Mary was defaced with black paint and an offensive English inscription reading "Devil in skirt," while the word "Devil" was marked in several additional spots. Furthermore, a banner was left near the monument listing the names of Medjugorje visionaries alongside a message in Polish stating they are fraudsters with proof provided.