Gunmen Invade Enugu Catholic Church, Kidnap Three Worshippers During Sunday Mass

Fear and panic gripped worshippers in Enugu State on Sunday after heavily armed gunmen stormed St. Joseph Catholic Church, Inoyi, in Affa Community, Udi Local Government Area, abducting three people during a church service. The victims included a seminarian, a catechist and another worshipper, although one of them was later released by the kidnappers.

According to eyewitnesses, the attackers invaded the church premises while parishioners were gathered for Sunday worship. The gunmen reportedly seized the seminarian, the catechist and another worshipper before leading them into a nearby forest. Shortly afterward, the kidnappers freed the catechist but continued into the bush with the remaining two captives, leaving the congregation in shock and forcing many worshippers to flee for safety.

Residents said the attack occurred amid heavy rainfall, adding to the confusion as people scrambled to escape. Witnesses claimed the assailants, believed to be at least seven in number, struck with little resistance before disappearing into the surrounding bush with their captives.

The Enugu State Police Command confirmed the incident and said a joint security operation involving police personnel, Forest Guards and members of the Neighbourhood Watch Group had been launched to rescue the victims and apprehend those responsible. Authorities said security teams immediately moved into the surrounding forests and other suspected hideouts following the attack.

Police spokesperson Daniel Ndukwe urged residents to remain calm while assuring the public that every available resource was being deployed to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted victims. He also appealed to members of the public to provide credible and timely information that could assist ongoing operations.

The latest incident has heightened concerns over worsening insecurity in parts of southeastern Nigeria, where kidnappings for ransom have become increasingly common. The attack came just days after another reported abduction involving Catholic clergy along the Okigwe-Umunneochi Road, further fueling fears among religious communities and residents.

Religious leaders and community members have condemned the attack, describing it as a desecration of a place of worship and calling on security agencies to intensify efforts to protect churches and other public spaces. Many residents have also urged both the federal and state governments to strengthen security across vulnerable communities in Enugu State.

As of the time of filing this report, the two remaining abducted victims had not been rescued, and no group had claimed responsibility for the attack. Security agencies say investigations are ongoing, with efforts focused on locating the kidnappers and securing the safe release of the victims.