The police in Limpopo have launched a manhunt for the suspect who brutally murdered a Catholic priest while changing after Holy Mass in Aqua-Park, Tzaneen on Wednesday morning. The Association for Catholic Information in Africa (ACI Africa) confirmed that Father William Banda was shot after celebrating Holy Mass.

Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said initial police findings suggest that following a morning prayer session with members of the church, the priest proceeded to the changing room where he was followed by an unknown man. "Tragically, the suspect shot the priest twice in the head before fleeing the scene," said Ledwaba. The priest was rushed to the nearby hospital after the police and emergency services were called to the scene. "The victim was pronounced dead on arrival. A case of murder has been opened, and at this stage, the police don't know the motive behind the crime."

The police have asked the community to come forward if they have information. "We appeal to members of the community who may possess any information related to the incident to come forward and assist the investigation," said Ledwaba. Meanwhile, provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe tasked the Murder and Robbery Unit to lead the investigation. She expressed 'profound shock and dismay' over this heinous act.