Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers, on Christmas Day, reportedly shot at a Catholic priest of St. Kelvin’s Parish in Ogbaku, Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo State.
Reports said the assistant parish priest was attacked while attempting to enter the church premises early Thursday morning.
The incident occurred at approximately 8 am, as the priest was about to open the church gate.
“It happened this morning (Thursday). He (Priest) was attempting to enter the gate, but before he could, a bullet from an unknown direction him,” reports quoted a source to have said.
A bullet reportedly struck the priest’s right arm, resulting in injury. According to the source, he was promptly transported to a hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment.
“Nobody saw the individuals who shot him; it appeared to be a stray bullet. Fortunately, he survived and has been taken to the hospital,” the source added.
The Catholic Archbishop of Owerri, His Grace Lucius Ugorji, confirmed the incident, noting that the identity of the attackers remain unknown.
He stated that investigations are ongoing and that security agencies have been notified of the incident.