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And in a shocking turn of events, armed men stormed the St Joseph Catholic Church in Inoyi, Affa Community, Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State on Sunday, abducting a seminarian, a catechist, and two other members of the church. Eyewitnesses said the assailants stormed the church around 8:30 am. The police and local security agencies arrived promptly, but the abductors escaped with the three victims.

The joint security team, comprising police operatives, Forest Guards, and members of the Neighbourhood Watch Group, has intensified the search for the suspects and is working to rescue the remaining victims. The operation is led by the Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, Mr. Mamman Giwa, who has directed the Area Commander, Oji-River, and the Head of the Command's Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) to deploy all available operational assets.

The Commissioner of Police has assured residents of the community that every available resource is being deployed to secure the safe rescue of the remaining victims and bring the perpetrators to justice. Residents are urged to report any information that can aid the operation to the following emergency lines: 08032003702, 08086671202, 112, 09134666668, or 09134448093, or via email at [email protected].

The Enugu State Command-and-Control Centre will also activate its surveillance and technical capabilities to bolster the ongoing rescue efforts.

Key Facts

  • The attack occurred at St Joseph Catholic Church in Inoyi, Affa Community, Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State on Sunday.
  • A seminarian, a catechist, and two other members of the church were abducted.
  • The joint security team comprises police operatives, Forest Guards, and members of the Neighbourhood Watch Group.
  • The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Mamman Giwa, has assured residents of the community that every available resource is being deployed.
  • Residents are urged to report any information that can aid the operation to the following emergency lines or via email.

The church has been the site of several attacks in the past. In 2019, a bombing incident occurred at the church, resulting in several fatalities. The exact cause of the attack was not immediately clear, but it is believed to be linked to sectarian violence.

The security operation is a testament to the collaborative effort between law enforcement agencies and the community to ensure public safety. In the wake of recent attacks, the need for community involvement and cooperation has become increasingly evident.