… We’ve activated intelligence and operational assets for possible rescue— Police
The parish priest of Saint Matthew’s Church in Ajalli, Orumba North local government area, of Anambra State, Reverend Father Christian Ike, has been kidnapped by gunmen.
This is even as the Anambra police said they’ve activated necessary machineries to see to the rescue of the victims.
The Catholic Priest was reportedly whisked away with another parishioner, Mr. Ogbonnia Aneke, on Sunday around, 16th June, 2024 around 10 a.m.
The Diocese of Ekwulobia confirmed the abduction in a letter from Diocesan Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Lawrence Nwankwo, calling for prayers for the safe release of the kidnapped individuals.
“Dear Brothers and Sisters, CALL FOR PRAYERS. KIDNAP CASE, REV. FR. CHRISTIAN IKE. Please pray for the release of Rev. Fr. Christian Ike and Mr. Ogbonnia Aneke, who were kidnapped this morning around 9:45 a.m. as they were returning from Mass in an outstation of St. Matthew’s Parish, Ajalli, Orumba North L.G.A,” the church statement read.
Reacting to the development, the Anambra police command spokesman, Ikenga Tochukwu, said they’ve “received the information of the abduction of Rev Father Christian Ike and has deployed its Intelligence and Operational assets of the Command for possible rescue unhurt.”
Ikenga in a statement made available to JOURNALIST101, said “eyewitness account reveals by 10:30 am on 16/6/2024, the priest and two others were returning from St Micheal Catholic Church Ndiokpaleke where they attended Morning Service, along Amagu Junction, they were double-crossed by armed men operating in three vehicles, while the other two escaped the scene, the criminals took away the priest and some personal belongings of the occupants in the vehicle.
“To this end, the Command has activated its Intelligence and Operational assets for possible arrest of the assailants and rescue unhurt of the Priest.
“Further development shall be communicated, please.”
This incident follows the recent kidnapping of Reverend Father Basil Chukwuemeka at Nkpor Junction in Idemili North local government area.
