Police search Cologne archdiocese in sexual abuse perjury inquiry

Archbishop under investigation on suspicion of falsely testifying about when he became aware of clergy sexual abuse

German police have raided properties belonging to the Catholic church in response to allegations that the archbishop of Cologne committed perjury over his knowledge of sexual abuse in the local diocese.

Cardinal Rainer Maria Woelki, one of the most senior leaders in the German Catholic church, is under investigation on suspicion of having falsely testified to court about when he became aware of reports of clergy sexual abuse.