Foul Play Suspected: Missing Roman Catholic Priest Father Regis Chikuni found dead

The Archdiocese of Harare has confirmed the death of Father Regis Chikuni, a 58-year-old senior Roman Catholic priest who had been reported missing.

Father Chikuni was reported missing on 5 September. Four days later, on 9 September, the Archdiocese announced that he had been found deceased at the mortuary of Parirenyatwa Hospital in Harare. The announcement was issued by Father Ephraim Murwira, the Archbishop’s Secretary, on behalf of Archbishop Robert C. Ndlovu.

The church has not provided details regarding the cause of death or the circumstances under which Father Chikuni was brought to the hospital. The Archdiocese had previously reported the priest’s disappearance to the police while conducting a search.

Father Chikuni was a well-known figure within the Archdiocese, having previously led Charismatic groups in Harare and served at the Holy Rosary Parish in Mvurwi, Mashonaland Central Province. During his time in Mvurwi in 2017, he was the victim of a robbery at his parish residence, during which he was assaulted and US$300 was stolen.

While the church has expressed its condolences and requested prayers for the late priest, the lack of information regarding his death has led to public speculation. The Archdiocese stated that funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date.

Article and image source: myzimbabwe.co.zw