Hoodlums Set Catholic Church Ablaze in Cross River

Suspected hoodlums have set ablaze St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Katchuan Iruan, Boki Local Government Area, in what police authorities have described as an act of arson.

The incident occurred around 3:00 a.m. on Thursday in Cross River State, according to the state Police Command.

Confirming the attack, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, said unidentified persons invaded the church premises in the early hours and set parts of the property on fire.

He disclosed that the blaze destroyed vital church documents kept in the sacristy, while two vehicles parked within the compound were also torched. The affected vehicles include a Lexus RX 350 belonging to the parish priest and a Toyota Corolla.

Eitokpah stated that no arrests have been made as of the time of filing this report, adding that investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend those responsible.

“No suspect has been identified at this time. Efforts are ongoing to ascertain those responsible for the unfortunate criminal act. Should any suspect be identified, this will be made known to the public,” he said.

The police spokesman further revealed that officers have visited the scene, documented evidence, and referred the case to the Okunde Police Station for discreet investigation.

The motive behind the attack remains unclear.