In a distressing turn of events, Reverend Father Christian Ike, a Catholic priest based in Anambra State, was kidnapped by gunmen.
The abduction took place on Sunday at Amagu junction, Ndiokpaleke in Ajali community, Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State. Father Ike was on his way back from an early morning Mass at St. Michael Catholic Church, accompanied by two others, when their vehicle was intercepted by the assailants.
The motive behind the kidnapping remains unknown. Eyewitnesses reported that the priest and his companions were suddenly confronted and taken away, leaving the community in shock and fear.
A local source recounted, “The priest and two other persons were returning from St. Michael Catholic Church, where they attended morning service, when they were double-crossed by the kidnappers.”
“On reaching Amagu Junction, their vehicle was suddenly double-crossed by armed men traveling in three vehicles. While the other two passengers managed to escape, the criminals seized the priest and some personal belongings from the vehicle occupants.”
This recent abduction marks the second incident in just two months. It’s a chilling reminder of the growing insecurity in the region. Just last May 15, another priest, Reverend Father Basil Gbuzuo, fell victim to kidnapping near Onitsha, taken by unknown gunmen.
Gbuzuo was later released some weeks later after some undisclosed amount of ransom was paid to his captors.
Confirming the incident, Anambra State police spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, assured that the command has taken immediate action to rescue Reverend Father Christian Ike unharmed.
Ikenga stated, “Anambra State Police Command received the information of the abduction of Rev Father Christian Ike and has deployed its intelligence and operational assets for possible rescue unhurt.
“According to eyewitness accounts received, around 10:30 am on 16/6/2024, the priest and two others were returning from St. Michael Catholic Church Ndiokpaleke after attending morning service. Along Amagu Junction, they were ambushed by armed men operating in three vehicles. While the other two managed to escape, the criminals seized the priest and some personal belongings from the vehicle.
“To this end, the Command has activated its intelligence and operational assets to apprehend the assailants and ensure the safe rescue of the priest.”
He further stated that any updates on the situation will be communicated as they unfold.
