Police launch operation to rescue kidnapped catholic priest in Imo

May 21, 2023

By Amaka Umeh

Imo, Nigeria- The Police Command in Imo says it has launched a rescue operation to rescue a Catholic Priest, Rev. Fr. Jude Maduka, who was kidnapped on Sunday morning at his Adoration Ministry, Isiala Mbano Local Government Area.

The Humanitarian Post Reports that the Maduka, the Parish Priest of Christ the King Parish, Ezinachi/Ugwuago of the Diocese of Okigwe in Okigwe Local Government Area, was abducted while preparing for the Eucharistic Mass celebration.

The incident occurred barely 24 hours after yet-to-be identified gunmen had ambushed and killed two policemen at Okpala junction in Ngor-Okpala Local Goeêvernment Area of the state.

Commuters have express worry over the incessant kidnapping of Catholic Priests in the community, adding that Priests have become targets of kidnappers.

Confirming the incident, the state’s Police spokesman, ASP Henry Okoye told journalists that Maduka was kidnapped at the building site of his adoration centre.

According to him, the state Commissioner of Police, Muhammed Barde, has ordered full investigation and manhunt for the kidnappers.

“We are currently on the trail of the kidnappers to immediately rescue the priest and bring the hoodlums to face the wrath of the law,” he said.

The Humanitarian Post