Gunmen Invade Catholic Church In Enugu, Abduct Worshippers as Security Forces Rescue One

Security operatives have rescued one of three worshippers abducted by suspected gunmen during an attack on a Catholic Church in Affa Community, Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State, while efforts have intensified to secure the release of the remaining victims.

The attack reportedly occurred in the early hours of Sunday at a Catholic church in Inoyi, Affa Community, prompting a swift response from a joint security team comprising police operatives, Forest Guards and members of the Neighbourhood Watch Group.

According to the Enugu State Police Command, the security team immediately pursued the fleeing kidnappers, forcing them to abandon one of the victims, who was rescued unharmed. The assailants, however, escaped with two other worshippers.

Police Public Relations Officer, SP Daniel Ndukwe, said the rescue operation is ongoing, with security agencies deploying additional personnel and intelligence resources to track down the suspects and secure the safe return of the remaining victims.

Following the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Mamman Giwa, directed the Area Commander in Oji River and the Commander of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) to intensify rescue efforts and deploy all available operational assets.

The police chief also ordered the State Intelligence Department to strengthen both human and technical intelligence gathering to support the ongoing operation, while the Enugu State Command-and-Control Centre has activated its surveillance systems to aid the search.

The police appealed to residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could assist in rescuing the abducted victims and apprehending those responsible for the attack.

The latest incident has renewed concerns over the security situation in parts of Enugu State, with authorities assuring residents that every effort is being made to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure the victims regain their freedom.