Gunmen stormed St. Peter Catholic Church in Iviukwa, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, abducting Rev. Father Philip Ekeli and Seminarian Peter Andrew late Monday night. The brazen attack, which occurred around 11:30 PM, has sent shockwaves across the community as security forces race against time to rescue the victims.
The Edo State Police Command confirmed the abduction, revealing that one of the attackers was neutralized in a shootout, while four other suspects—Murtala Ibrahim (32), Joshua Joseph (31), Sadiq Sheidu (35), and Sunday Bulus (28)—were arrested. Items recovered from the suspects include N168,850 in cash, a Tecno mobile phone, a power bank, a dagger jacket, and a bag containing biscuits and Nescafé beverage.
Police spokesperson Moses Yamu disclosed that Commissioner of Police Betty Enekpen Isokpan has deployed specialized anti-kidnapping units, Police Mobile Force personnel, and military operatives to ensure the swift and unconditional release of the abducted priest and seminarian.
A distress call from the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) alerted security forces, prompting a rapid response from the police, vigilantes, and hunters. Despite their efforts, the gunmen managed to escape with the hostages into a nearby forest.
Security agencies, including the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), have since intensified search operations, as concerned citizens demand swift justice and a crackdown on criminal elements threatening religious institutions in Edo State.
