LATVIA
AFP

September 6, 2018

– Police have arrested 73-year-old priest Pavels Zeila who served in eastern Latvia
– Area to host Pope Francis during his tour of three Baltic states later this month
– Second man was also arrested on suspicion of trafficking in the case, police say

A Catholic priest has been arrested over claims he raped a mentally handicapped victim of human trafficking in Latvia.

The priest, identified as Pavels Zeila, 73, served in the Aglona-Rezekne diocese in eastern Latvia, which is to host Pope Francis during a four-day tour of the three Baltic states later this month.

A second man was also arrested on suspicion of trafficking in the case, which has shocked the Baltic state as it prepares to receive the Pope from September 22.