In the western Ukrainian city of Ungvár (Uzhhorod), the Hanukkah menorah, one of the oldest symbols of the Jewish people, was desecrated, Kárpáthír reported.
In honor of Hanukkah, the nine-branched menorah was ceremonially set up in the square in front of the former synagogue, home of the county philharmonic. During the ceremony, the town’s leaders emphasized the centuries of peaceful coexistence of the peoples of the multi-ethnic region, as well as mutual respect for traditions and religions.
In sharp contrast to this message came the shocking news that
on Sunday, vandals had desecrated the menorah and thrown it into the Ung River.
According to police information, crime scene investigators and detectives are on the scene, and the task force has already started working to identify the perpetrators. They may be assisted by the installation of CCTV cameras nearby. The police have initiated proceedings for destructive behavior, which carries a fine or a prison sentence of up to five years.
