By: Benedict AbuBakarr Conteh
The Catholic Bishops in Sierra Leone have expressed grave concern over the rising wave of violent attacks against clergy, religious personnel, and mission properties across the country, describing the situation as a serious threat to peace, security, and the nation’s spiritual fabric.
In a statement dated 2nd February 2026, the Catholic Bishops in Sierra Leone (CBSL) condemned what they described as a chain of targeted attacks on Church personnel and facilities, stressing that such acts go beyond ordinary criminality and amount to an assault on national harmony and religious freedom. The bishops noted that despite repeated calls for improved security in the past, attacks on priests and Church properties have continued, creating fear and insecurity among religious communities and the wider public.
The statement highlighted recent incidents, including the murder of Fr. Augustine Amadu in August 2025 at his residence in Kenema, and the armed attack on Fr. James Jamiru on 27th January 2026 at the parish residence of St. Mary’s Church in Pendembu, where the priest sustained injuries. The bishops also drew attention to a series of assaults on mission properties across several dioceses, involving theft and looting of facilities intended to serve the poor and vulnerable.
While expressing deep solidarity with affected priests, religious, and lay faithful, the bishops called on the Government of Sierra Leone and law enforcement agencies to move beyond statements of sympathy and take concrete actions to address the growing insecurity. They demanded stronger security presence in crime-prone areas, swift prosecution of suspects linked to the attacks, and accountability for what they described as slow or ineffective responses by local police in some affected regions.
The bishops warned that continued failure to ensure adequate security could fuel vigilantism and social unrest, emphasizing that the protection of lives and property remains a primary responsibility of the State. They reaffirmed the Church’s role as a moral compass for society, stressing that peace and justice must be upheld through lawful and responsible action.
Despite the gravity of the situation, the bishops urged the faithful to reject violence and respond instead with non-violent action, mercy, and prayer. They encouraged prayers not only for the victims but also for the transformation of those who perpetrate violence, underscoring the Christian call to forgiveness and human dignity.
Concluding the statement, the bishops encouraged Sierra Leoneans not to surrender to fear, reminding the faithful that hope and peace remain grounded in faith. Quoting from scripture, they reaffirmed their belief that peace ultimately comes from God and called on all people of goodwill to work together to restore safety, justice, and harmony across the country.
The statement was jointly signed by Archbishop Edward Tamba Charles of Freetown, Bishop Henry Aruna of Kenema, Bishop Charles A.M. Campbell of Bo, and Bishop Bob John H. Koroma of Makeni.
Read the statement here.
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