South African authorities have apprehended a suspect in connection to the tragic murder of three Egyptian Coptic Orthodox monks within a church premises. The motive behind the fatal stabbings, which occurred on Tuesday, remains unclear.
“The 35-year-old man is expected to appear before Cullinan Magistrates’ Court on 14 March 2024,” South African Police Service (SAPS) said in a statement.
The incident took place in Cullinan, located 50 kilometers (30 miles) northeast of Pretoria, where the monks were found with stab wounds. Another victim, who survived, reported being struck with an iron rod before seeking refuge in one of the rooms, according to SAPS.
Egypt’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement expressing its active monitoring of the investigations, alongside the Egyptian embassy in Pretoria. The ambassador emphasized the importance of uncovering the circumstances and holding the perpetrators accountable.
The Coptic Orthodox Church of South Africa conveyed its profound sorrow over the tragic event and extended condolences to the families of the deceased monks, identified as Hegumen Takla El-Samuely, Yostos Ava Markos, and Mina Ava Markos.
Despite the absence of theft, the suspects fled the scene, leaving authorities to grapple with the investigation.
South Africa, known for its high crime rates, has seen an increase in criminal incidents targeting places of worship, often highlighted on social media platforms.
During the period between October and December, the country recorded nearly 84 murders per day, as per the latest police statistics.
In South Africa, the Coptic Orthodox community comprises approximately 4,500 families, within a population of 62 million people, as reported on the church’s website.
