Overview

• The desecration occurred around 9 a.m. during Holy Mass at the Altar of Confession, in view of hundreds of visitors.
• Plainclothes officers intervened quickly, pulling the man from the steps and removing him from the basilica.
• Viral bystander videos show the suspect pulling up his jeans and briefly exposing his backside as authorities approached.
• Local reports said Pope Leo XIV was informed and described as shocked after learning of the episode.
• The incident follows previous breaches at the same altar, prompting renewed calls for tighter security and for a penitential rite or reconsecration.