Freetown: The Catholic Bishops of Sierra Leone have issued a strong condemnation of the escalating attacks targeting priests, religious men and women, and Church property across the country. The statement comes amid growing concern over incidents of violence and theft affecting the Catholic community.
According to the Vatican Fides news agency, the Bishops’ declaration follows a recent assault on Fr. James Joshua Jamuri, parish priest at the Church of the Assumption of Mary in Pendembu, Upper Bambara. On January 27, 2025, Fr. Jamuri sustained injuries to his head, hands, and knees during the attack. The assailant was apprehended and is currently in police custody.
The Bishops also recalled the tragic killing of Fr. Augustine Dauda Amadu, parish priest of the Immaculate Conception in Kenema, who was brutally murdered on August 30, 2025. “We express our deepest solidarity and concern for the victims of these attacks,” the Bishops’ statement said, noting the profound shock these acts of violence have caused within the Sierra Leonean Catholic community. Investigations into Fr. Amadu’s murder have led to the arrest of six individuals, accused of stealing a laptop valued at $350 and 5,000 Sierra Leonean Leones in cash.
The Bishops warned that, six months after the murder of Fr. Chinedu and the assault on Fr. Jamuri, incidents of theft and armed robbery targeting Church missions and properties have intensified. Such attacks have deprived vulnerable populations—particularly the poor of vital services provided by the Church, deepening social distress in affected communities.
Reaffirming their unwavering solidarity with priests, religious members, and lay faithful, the Bishops stressed that the ongoing invasions, robberies, and looting of Church institutions are intolerable. “This is enough!” the statement declared, calling for urgent action to safeguard the clergy and Church missions.
The Bishops concluded with a forceful appeal to law enforcement and government authorities to implement concrete measures to prevent further attacks. They urged the police to ensure the safety of religious personnel and protect Church properties throughout Sierra Leone, emphasizing that the faithful must be able to live and minister without fear of violence.
The Catholic Bishops’ intervention underscores the growing challenges faced by religious communities in Sierra Leone and highlights the urgent need for security and justice for those serving in pastoral and mission roles.