Paraguay: Investigation requested into destruction of Virgin of Peace statue

A community in Yataity, Paraguay, is seeking answers after a statue of the Virgin of Peace, a revered religious icon, was found destroyed at the entrance to the Laguna Hû neighborhood. The incident has caused concern among residents, who have filed a police report and urged for a thorough investigation.

The ceramic image, situated on a metal post near a bus stop, was discovered in pieces. The parish priest of San Salvador, Óscar Natividad González Goiris, was alerted to the damage and subsequently reported it to the authorities. The police have since forwarded the case to the Public Ministry for a formal investigation into potential criminal responsibility.

Currently, authorities have not identified any suspects or determined the exact circumstances surrounding the destruction. While residents have offered various theories, including drug or alcohol consumption or even religious intolerance, Father Goiris stated there is no concrete evidence to support these claims. The lack of witnesses, despite the statue's visible location and nearby street lighting, has added to the mystery and concern within the community.

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It is worrying that this precedent remains. It is worrying that this precedent remains.