Father Detained for Suspected Involvement in Angolan Catholic Priest’s Death

Luanda, 08 August, 2025 / 8:27 PM

Fr. Vasco Ngonguela Samba, a 30-year-old member of the Catholic Archdiocese of Huambo in Angola, who went missing on July 31, has been found dead, and his father arrested on suspicion of homicide.

The body of the Curate of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish of Huambo Archdiocese was discovered in Kwando River dam near the Kwando Catholic Mission, and taken to the morgue of Huambo General Hospital by the Criminal Investigation Service (SIC).

On August 6, SIC officials announced the arrest of the Priest’s father, Amândio dos Santos Samba. According to SIC spokesperson Manuel Halaiwa, he was detained on suspicion of homicide.

“The Criminal Investigation Service immediately launched an investigation in recent days, which led to the location of the Priest, unfortunately already deceased, whose body was found today, August 6, submerged in the dam of the Cuando River,” he said.

Mr. Halaiwa further explained, “After all formalities were completed and a judicial inspection was conducted at the site, the body was removed to the morgue of Huambo General Hospital for forensic examination.”

“It should be noted that, within the ongoing investigations and following a detention warrant issued by the Public Ministry, the citizen identified as Amândio dos Santos Samba, the victim’s father, was arrested on Tuesday, August 5, on strong suspicion of committing homicide,” he added.

The SIC spokesperson said the detainee would be presented to the Public Ministry for subsequent legal proceedings, while further investigations continue to give clarity on the suspected homicide case.

“We appeal to everyone, especially the family and the Catholic community, to remain calm as the process unfolds,” the official said.

In another statement issued August 6, the leadership of the Catholic Archdiocese of Huambo announced the funeral program of Late Fr. Vasco.

“From August 6 to 8, there will be a celebration of Holy Mass at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish. This will also mark the opening of the book of condolences. On Friday, there will be many Eucharistic celebrations,” the statement reads in part.

Fr. Vasco is to be laid to rest on Saturday, August 9, after a funeral Mass at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish.