Gunmen reportedly kidnapped a Catholic priest, Reverend Father M. Okide of the Enugu Catholic Diocese, and six other travelers on Sunday evening in Enugu, Nigeria.
The kidnapping took place on Eke-Affa-Egede Road in Udi LGA, Enugu State, between 4:30 pm and 5 pm on Sunday.
It was learned that the kidnappers have reportedly contacted the victims’ relatives, demanding a ransom of N100 million for the release of the Catholic Priest and the other captives.
It was reported that the kidnappers left the victims’ children inside their vehicle, where they cried for help until police arrived at the scene to take them to safety.
The police command has not yet responded to the incident, but officers from the Udi Police Division have already initiated a search in the area to secure the release of the Catholic Priest and other individuals.
Meanwhile, police detectives in Enugu state have reportedly shot and killed three individuals suspected to be members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) or Eastern Security Network (ESN). This action was taken due to their alleged involvement in attempting to enforce sit at hjome order in the state.
The command spokesman, Daniel Ndukwe in a statement, said the suspects were “neutralized” during a gunfight in Ezioha Mgbowo community, situated in Awgu Local Government Area of the state, earlier today, Monday.
The statement reads:
“At about 2.15 am today, September 18, 2023, a joint security team, comprising Police Operatives of the Enugu State Command, NPF Special Forces, and Troops of the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army Enugu, acting on credible intelligence, burst the criminal hideout of IPOB/ESN subversive criminal elements in Ezioha Mgbowo in Awgu Local Government Area, while they were perfecting plans to enforce the illegal sit-at-home order in the State.”
“Three (3) of the hoodlums, who opened fire on the joint team upon sighting them, were neutralized, while several others escaped with severe degrees of gunshot wounds in the ensuing gunfight.”
“Three (3) pump-action guns, ten (10) machetes, and other incriminating exhibits were recovered; while an intense manhunt for those on the run is ongoing.”
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Kanayo Uzuegbu, commended the joint team for their work and reassured the public of their safety and security. He urged citizens to go about their lawful businesses without fear.
The police commissioner reaffirmed the police and other security forces’ commitment to continue fighting against unrepentant violent criminals, regardless of their affiliation.
He urged everyone to report anyone they see with a gunshot wound to the nearest police station.
“The good people of Enugu State should remain law-abiding and continue to provide the police with actionable security information and intelligence,” he advised.