The alleged pill-peddling priest from the western Spanish town of Don Benito was arrested along with his romantic partner, a man, on Monday following a months-long investigation, El País reports.

He was later released on bail, while his partner — with whom he is said to share a home — remains held on remand.

The Diocese of Plasencia said it regrets the “pain, suffering and scandal” caused by the priest’s arrest and is “waiting for the facts to be clarified”.

The priest has not been named but is said to be one of six priests in Don Benito, which belongs to the parish of San Sebastián.