On 7 March 2025, the Kumano-Osogovo Diocese of the Macedonian Orthodox Church – Ohrid Archbishopric (MOC-OA) reported to the Matejče Police Station that unknown perpetrators had, during the course of the month, unlawfully entered the Monastery of the Dormition of the Most Holy Mother of God in the village of Matejče, Lipkovo Municipality, a site protected by the state as cultural heritage, by using physical force and suitable tools.
Once inside the facility, the perpetrators excavated the floor. In addition to digging up the ground, they removed and desecrated the mortal remains of buried persons and stole lead sheet metal from the central monastery church.
An inspection was conducted by the competent Public Prosecutor and a crime scene investigation team from the Kumanovo Police Department. Measures are being undertaken to clarify the circumstances of the case.
