ASIA/IRAQ - “The body of Archbishop Faraj Rahho has been found,” Nuncio tells Fides, emphasizing the need to guarantee security for Iraqi Christians

Baghdad (Agenzia Fides) - “I regretfully confirm the fact that Archbishop Faraj Rahho has been found dead,” the Apostolic Nuncio in Iraq, Bishop Francis Assisi Chullikatt, told Agenzia Fides. “The body of Archbishop Rahho was found on the outskirts of Mosul. He had been buried by his kidnappers. The exact cause of death is still unknown at this time,” Bishop Chullikatt said.
“Until this morning, we had hopes of finding Archbishop Rahho alive, and of reuniting him with his community of faithful. His death is counted in addition to those of his two security guards and chauffeur, who were murdered at the time of the kidnapping,” the Nuncio added, recalling as well that, “On June 3, 2007, in Mosul, Cahaldean priest Fr. Raghhed Ganni and three deacons were murdered. Following that criminal act, the government promised a thorough investigation. We are still awaiting the results. In this case, as well, they should offer a response and ensure the security of Iraqi Christians.”
Archbishop Paulos Faraj Rahho, Chaldean Archbishop of Mosul, was kidnapped on February 29 in Mosul, after having celebrated the Stations of the Cross, as he left the Church of the Holy Spirit. In the event of the kidnapping, three other people were killed: two security guards and the chauffeur. (LM) (Agenzia Fides 13/3/2008; righe 17, parole 210)