Kenema, Sierra Leone — Catholic leaders in the region are sounding alarm bells over a spate of violent attacks directed at clergy, underscoring growing concerns about safety within the faith community. This alarming trend includes the tragic murder of a priest last August and recent physical assaults that have left many in fear.
In a distressing turn of events, Father James Joshua Jamiru, who serves at Mary’s Parish in the Kenema Diocese, recently endured a near-fatal assault by an armed intruder at his home in Pendembu, Kailahun District. The attack took place around noon on January 27, 2026, prompting the priest to call the police for help as he fought to fend off his attacker.
Authorities reported that during the confrontation, Father Jamiru sustained multiple injuries, including wounds to his thumb, fingers, head, and knees. At the time of the incident, he was apparently alone in the rectory, with his housekeeper having left for school and secured the entrance.
In a moment of desperation, Father Jamiru grabbed a cutlass he kept for protection. A struggle ensued, during which he managed to inflict a cut on the assailant’s forehead. The attacker fled the scene shortly before the police arrived in response to the emergency call. Local law enforcement later identified and arrested the assailant, Ansu Bockarie, due to the visible injury sustained during the altercation.
The violent climate facing the clergy is compounded by the murder of Father Augustine Amadu, who was killed on August 30 while preparing to celebrate a farewell Mass at Immaculate Conception Parish. The attack, allegedly carried out by robbers, has left the Catholic community grieving and questioning its safety.
Sierra Leone’s bishops released a statement highlighting these incidents as part of a troubling pattern of violence against priests. They have previously voiced concerns about the security of their clergy and properties, urging the government to enhance safety measures.
In their call for peace, the bishops emphasized the necessity for communities to unite against these senseless attacks. “The Church has repeatedly sought peace and security, and we reiterate these calls as fear and violence grow within our society,” they stated.
As the community grapples with the fallout from these attacks, the leaders urge authorities to take decisive action to safeguard both clergy and laypeople. The persistent prevalence of violence poses a significant challenge not just to the Church, but to the entire fabric of Sierra Leonean society.