Christian Solidarity Urges Colombia to Investigate Missing Priest Case

Investigation Urged in the Disappearance of Colombian Priest

The mysterious disappearance of Father Carlos Saúl Jaimes Guerrero, a Catholic priest from the Order of Saint Augustine, has prompted Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) to demand an investigation by the Colombian government. Father Carlos went missing three weeks ago while traveling to a rural region in the Viotá Municipality, Cundinamarca Department.

His journey, reportedly for an appointment, was abruptly halted when his vehicle was discovered with the engine running, yet there was no sign of the priest. Intriguingly, there were no indications of violence or theft at the scene.

This unsettling event follows a troubling episode in Colombia where eight religious and social leaders vanished after being lured to a meeting by a faction that broke away from the infamous FARC movement. Tragically, they were later found deceased in a mass grave.

Desperate for news, Father Carlos’ mother has made a heartfelt plea for information: “Please send us news about him, contact the family. I’m desperate, I know nothing about him. Please, I need him returned safe and sound.”

The local authorities have employed an “urgent search mechanism,” a special procedure activated when individuals are suspected to be abducted by illegal armed entities. A reward of approximately £1,800 is being offered for any information leading to the priest’s discovery.

CSW has voiced its concerns over the Colombian government’s decision in 2023 to remove religious leaders from the list of individuals eligible for special protection, despite ongoing attacks against them.

Anna Lee Stangl, CSW’s Director of Advocacy, emphasized the necessity for a robust governmental response: “We urge the Colombian government to strengthen its efforts to ensure a coordinated, prompt and effective response from institutions at every level to ensure Father Jaimes Guerrero’s swift and safe return.

“We insist upon the urgent need for the government to remember its duty to prevent, protect and investigate any targeting of religious and social leaders.

“We call on the government to reinstate religious leaders under Decree 1066, to ensure their access to government protection programs and security mechanisms.”