Mykolaiv officials launch a probe after attempted arson of local synagogue

Source: UJCU

A Molotov cocktail was thrown at a facade of a synagogue in Mykolaiv overnight on Monday in what appears to be an arson attempt. The fire was promptly put out b the building’s security guard, which prevented flames from spreading.

The United Jewish Community of Ukraine reported the accident to  police.  The attack has been classified as hooliganism under Part 4 of Article 296 of Ukraine’s Criminal Code.

The Jewish community activists though raised concerns over this classification, pointing out that the perpetrators’ actions may violate Ukraine’s Law on Preventing and Combating Antisemitism, which outlaws  the intentional damage or destruction of property belonging to Jewish individuals, communities, organizations, or religious structures motivated by antisemitism.

Representatives from the UJCU argue that the attack could also fall under Article 161 of Ukraine’s Criminal Code, which addresses violations of citizens’ equality based on race, nationality, religion, disability, or other characteristics