The Lebanese Internal Security Forces have arrested two men in connection with multiple robberies of churches in Mount Lebanon.
Two suspects, identified only by their initials T.S. and H.S., were arrested Wednesday in Burj Hammoud, officials announced. They were born in 1990.
The duo allegedly confessed to taking money from church collection boxes to fund their suspected drug addictions, officials said.
Security forces believe money was stolen from churches in the following areas:
- Jbeil
- Chawieh
- Bolonia
- Ballouneh
- Ain El Delbi
- Jiyeh
- Lehfed
- Mastita
- Bchalle
- Zouq El Kharab
Officials added that marijuana and heroin were recovered from their vehicle.
“In response to the thefts, the Internal Security Forces Information Division initiated procedures to identify and arrest the two gang members,” a statement said.
The duo have a criminal history that includes theft and drug abuse.