Crime

Unknown Gunmen Kidnap Another Catholic Priest in Anambra

Published by Tope Fakinlede on June 17th, 2024.

Unknown Gunmen Kidnap Another Catholic Priest in Anambra

Reverend Father Christian Ike, a Catholic priest from Anambra State, was abducted by gunmen on Sunday near the Amagu intersection in Ndiokpaleke, Ajali village, Orumba North Local Government Area.

Witnesses reported that Father Ike was returning from an early morning Mass at St. Michael Catholic Church with two other individuals when their vehicle was intercepted by armed men. The assailants, operating in three vehicles, managed to kidnap the priest while the other two passengers escaped.

A source described the incident: “The priest and two others were returning from St. Michael Catholic Church after the morning service. Near Amagu Junction, their car was blocked by armed men in three vehicles. While the other two passengers managed to escape, the gunmen abducted the priest and took some personal belongings.”

This kidnapping marks the second such incident in two months, following the abduction of Reverend Father Basil Gbuzuo near Onitsha on May 15. Father Gbuzuo was released after an undisclosed ransom was paid.

Anambra State police spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the abduction and stated that the police have deployed intelligence and operational units to secure Father Ike’s safe release. Ikenga explained, “The Anambra State Police Command has been informed of the abduction of Reverend Father Christian Ike. We have deployed our intelligence and operational assets for his possible rescue. According to eyewitness accounts, around 10:30 am on June 16, 2024, the priest and two others were returning from St. Michael Catholic Church when they were ambushed by armed men. The other two individuals escaped, but the gunmen took the priest and some personal belongings.”

Ikenga assured that further updates would be provided to the media as the situation develops.