A disturbing incident unfolded on Sunday evening in Enugu as gunmen reportedly abducted Rev. Father M. Okide, a Catholic Priest from the Catholic Diocese of Enugu, along with six other travelers. The kidnapping occurred on Eke-Affa-Egede Road, situated in Udi Local Government Area of the State, between 4.30 pm and 5 pm.
According to reports, the kidnappers have already made contact with the victims’ relatives and are demanding a ransom of N100 million in exchange for the release of the Catholic Priest and the other captives. The situation became even more heart-wrenching as the kidnappers left the victims’ children inside their vehicle, where they cried for help. Thankfully, police operatives arrived at the scene to evacuate the distressed children.
As of now, the Enugu State Police Command has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident. However, the Udi Police Division has initiated efforts to locate and secure the release of the Catholic Priest and the other individuals who have been kidnapped.
One Confirmed Death As Gunmen Attacked Travelers In Ekiti
In a separate development, Enugu State Police detectives have engaged members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN) in a deadly confrontation. The encounter took place in Ezioha Mgbowo community, located in Awgu Local Government Area of the state, during the early hours of Monday.
Acting on credible intelligence, a joint security team comprising Enugu State Police Operatives, NPF Special Forces, and Nigerian Army Troops from the 82 Division, uncovered a hideout where individuals suspected to be affiliated with IPOB/ESN were planning to enforce an illegal sit-at-home order in the state.
During the ensuing gun battle that occurred after the suspects opened fire on the security team, three of the alleged criminals were neutralized. Several others managed to escape with gunshot wounds. In addition to the casualties, the authorities recovered three pump-action guns, ten machetes, and various other incriminating items.
The Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, commended the joint security team for their swift and efficient response to the situation. He emphasized the commitment of law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety and security of citizens as they go about their lawful activities in the state. CP Kanayo urged the public to report any individuals they may encounter with gunshot wounds to the nearest Police Station, while continuing to provide valuable security information to the police.
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