Police Launch Search Effort After Anambra Catholic Priest Abducted By Gunmen
Gunmen abducted Reverend Father Christian Ike, a Catholic priest based in Anambra State, on Sunday near Amagu Junction, Ndiokpaleke, Ajali community, Orumba North Local Government Area. According to eyewitnesses, Father Ike and another person were taken after their vehicle was intercepted following an early morning Mass at St. Michael Catholic Church.
Anambra State Police Command spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident and stated that the police have launched a search operation using intelligence and operational resources to ensure the safe rescue of the victims.
Eyewitnesses reported that armed men in three vehicles blocked Father Ike's vehicle at Amagu Junction. While two individuals managed to escape, the assailants seized Father Ike, along with personal belongings of the occupants.
In response to the abduction, the Diocese of Ekwulobia issued a statement through the Diocesan Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Lawrence Nwankwo, requesting prayers for the safe release of Father Ike and Mr. Ogbonnia Anike, who was also kidnapped during the incident.
"This morning at 9:45 AM, they were returning from Mass at an outstation of St. Matthew’s Parish, Ajalli, Orumba North L.G.A.," the statement read.
This marks the second abduction of a priest in Anambra State in two months, following the kidnapping of Reverend Father Basil Gbuzuo near Onitsha on May 15.
Police spokesperson Tochukwu Ikenga assured the public that the Anambra State Police Command is actively pursuing the case. "By 10:30 AM on June 16, 2024, Father Ike and two others were returning from St. Michael Catholic Church, Ndiokpaleke, when they were intercepted at Amagu Junction by armed men in three vehicles. While two escaped, the criminals abducted Father Ike and seized personal belongings," Ikenga stated.
He emphasized that the command has mobilized its resources to locate the assailants and safely recover Father Ike. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
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