In a shocking incident, a man was seen urinating on the Altar of Confession at St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City in front of hundreds of worshippers and tourists.
According to media reports, the unidentified man climbed the steps of the Altar of Confession before dropping his pants and urinating on the holy site.
He was immediately dragged away by plainclothes police officers and escorted out of the church.
The incident took place during a 9 am Holy Mass on Friday (October 10) and was captured on video and widely shared on social media.
However, it is not yet certain whether he was arrested or charged.
According to Italian media reports, Pope Francis was informed and was "shocked to learn of the news." However, no official statement has been released.
The Altar of Confession is considered one of the most sacred altars in Vatican City and one of the holiest spaces in Catholicism.