The Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) has appealed to the Mozambican authorities to investigate the alleged murder of Bishop Osório Citora Afonso of the Catholic Diocese of Quelimane.

According to reports, Mr Afonso was killed at his home in Quelimane city, Mozambique, on Saturday when yet-to-be-identified armed assailants stormed his residence and opened fire on the bishop, striking him in the chest. 

The National Criminal Investigation Service (SERNIC) subsequently confirmed that Mr Afonso succumbed to his injuries at the scene, stating that “The Service has already initiated investigative procedures to clarify the case and identify the perpetrators.”

In a statement issued in the aftermath of the incident, SECAM, an association of Catholic Bishops of Africa, said it was shocked by the news of Mr. Afonso’s death and condemned his killing as a grievous crime against a man of God.

The group said, “This heinous act, perpetrated against a shepherd of God’s people, constitutes not only an attack on the life and dignity of a devoted servant of the Gospel but also an assault on the values of peace, justice, human dignity, and religious freedom that are essential for the flourishing of every society.

“We strongly and unequivocally condemn this barbaric crime.”

Speaking further, the group called on the government to investigate the crime to ensure the culprits responsible for it are brought to justice, noting that the Catholic Church and the international community deserve an answer. 

“On behalf of SECAM, I call upon the government of the Republic of Mozambique and all competent authorities to undertake an immediate, thorough, transparent, and independent investigation into this crime. 

“We urge that all those responsible, whether direct perpetrators, accomplices, or masterminds, be identified, prosecuted, and brought to justice without delay. The people of Mozambique, the Catholic Church, and the international community deserve the truth,” it added. 

Additionally, the group pleaded with authorities to increase security around religious leaders, saying that freedom of religion remains a basic human right and the foundation of a peaceful society. 

“We further call upon the Mozambican authorities to strengthen measures guaranteeing the protection and security of religious leaders, places of worship, and all persons engaged in pastoral and humanitarian service,” the group said.