A Catholic bishop in Mozambique has been tragically killed in what authorities are describing as mysterious circumstances. Bishop Osório Citora Afonso, aged 54, was found shot dead at his residence in Quelimane on Saturday.

The incident has shocked the Catholic community in the country and raised concerns about the safety of religious leaders.

According to reports, the bishop was shot in the chest, likely with a single bullet. His body was discovered in a corridor inside the episcopal residence early in the morning. The country’s Episcopal Conference described the killing as happening under unclear conditions that still need full investigation.

Bishop Afonso had recently been appointed to lead the Diocese of Quelimane. He was a Consolata missionary who had served in different places, including the Democratic Republic of Congo and Italy, before returning to Mozambique. His death comes as a big loss to the Church, where about a quarter of the population follows the Catholic faith.

Mozambique’s President Daniel Chapo expressed deep sadness over the incident. He called the bishop’s death an irreparable loss to the entire society. Security officials have started investigations into the shooting, but no clear motive has been established yet.

This sad event has left many people in Mozambique and beyond mourning. The Church and government are calling for calm while urging a thorough probe to uncover what really happened. Bishop Afonso’s passing highlights the risks faced by faith leaders in some parts of Africa and serves as a reminder of the need for greater protection and peace in the region.