Priest held over attempted sexual contact with child

Updated / Thursday, 17 Apr 2025 22:24

A Catholic priest in the Derry Diocese has been arrested on suspicion of attempted sexual communication with a child.

The 58-year-old man was detained in Derry on this evening. He is believed to serve on both sides of the border.

A police spokesperson confirmed that a man had been arrested.

“He remains in police custody at this time. There are no further details.”

The Catholic Church in Derry said it was aware of an incident involving a priest in which the police are now involved.

A spokesman said it happened outside a hotel in the city.

“The diocese knows that a video of the incident has been posted online and we understand the PSNI have been involved.

“Currently the diocese has no further information.”

A video posted online shows a priest being confronted by a group of men who make a number of allegations against him.