Three Coptic Orthodox monks were found dead at the monastery of St. Mark and St. Samuel the Confessor in Cullinan, South Africa. The victims are P. Takla Moussa, head of the diocese of South Africa; Fr. Minah ava Marcus; and Fr. Youstos ava Marcus.

The circumstances of their deaths are unclear. They were found with stab wounds that probably caused their deaths. Who did this and why is still awaiting clarification. No valuables are missing, and the evidence shows that the killer left the monastery hastily after the murders.

There is one survivor who claims to have been hit by an iron bar but was able to flee and safely hide. The murders shook the South African Coptic Orthodox community. Pope Tawadros II, leader of the Coptic Orthodox Church, is closely following the case and is awaiting further developments.

Local police have detained a suspect; he is an Egyptian church member. The investigation is still ongoing.

Source: Asia News

Photo: MAZUR