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Quelimane (Fides News Agency) – New details have emerged in the investigation into the murder the Bishop of Quelimane Osório Citora Afonso, IMC, who was killed last June at the diocesan episcopal residence. The National Criminal Investigation Service (SERNIC) has arrested a former member of the Police of the Republic of Mozambique (PRM) in Zambézia Province. He was dismissed from the force in 2015 and is suspected of involvement in the murder.
According to information released by the authorities, the man, who had served with the Border Guard in Massingir, in the southern province of Gaza, is believed to have fled to Zambia after the bishop’s murder. Investigators have also reportedly uncovered links between the suspect and one of the alleged masterminds behind the killing. In particular, they are said to have traced several money transfers made to the former police officer by a Catholic priest, who has also been arrested in connection with the investigation.
Following his first judicial interrogation, the suspect was remanded in custody. Other individuals suspected of involvement in the murder remain at large.
The case continues to cause dismay and deep concern throughout society and the ecclesial community. The investigation raises questions not only about individual responsibility, which must be established through the judicial process, but also about the protection of human life and public trust in civil and religious institutions.
The killing of a bishop inside his own episcopal residence is a wound for the local Church. It underscores the need to establish the full truth about the crime and bring all those responsible to justice. At the same time, the Church is called to renew its Gospel witness and remain a point of reference for the entire population.
(AP) (Fides News Agency, 12/11/2026)
