A Catholic bishop recently appointed to lead one of Mozambique’s most prominent dioceses has been shot dead at his residence, sparking shock across the southern African nation and prompting calls for a thorough investigation.
Bishop Osorio Citora Afonso, 54, was found dead on Saturday at his home in Quelimane after sustaining a gunshot wound to the chest.
Authorities have described the incident as a homicide, although investigators say the motive behind the attack remains unclear.
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Speaking outside the bishop’s residence, spokesman for Mozambique’s Criminal Investigation Service, Maximino Amilcar, confirmed that Afonso was likely killed by a single gunshot.
The death has triggered an outpouring of grief from religious leaders, government officials and members of the public.
Mozambican President Daniel Chapo described the bishop’s death as an irreparable loss to the nation and extended condolences to the Catholic community.
The Episcopal Conference of Mozambique said the bishop was found lifeless under circumstances that remain unexplained and called for a full investigation.
Afonso was widely regarded as one of the emerging leaders of the Catholic Church in Mozambique.
Born in Mozambique, he served in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Italy before returning to take up senior church responsibilities in his home country.
In 2023, he was appointed auxiliary bishop of Maputo before later becoming a diocesan bishop.
Pope Leo XIV transferred him to the Diocese of Quelimane in July 2025, a move viewed by many within the church as recognition of his leadership and pastoral experience.
Mozambique is home to one of Southern Africa’s largest Catholic populations, with millions of worshippers spread across the country.
As investigators continue their work, church leaders and government officials are urging calm while authorities seek answers behind the shocking killing.
