By Njoku Chijioke
The Edo State Police Command has launched a manhunt for suspected herdsmen who abducted Rev. Fr. Philip Ekeli and a seminarian, Peter Andrew, from St. Peter Catholic Church, Ivukwa, in Etsako East Local Government Area.
The attack occurred around 11:30 p.m. on Monday when armed men stormed the church.
A swift police response, in collaboration with vigilantes and hunters under Operation Rescue, led to a gun battle with the kidnappers, resulting in the death of one suspect.
Security forces recovered a Tecno button phone, two SIM cards, a power bank, a dagger jacket, a bag containing biscuits and Nescafé, and ₦168,850 in cash.
Four suspects were arrested, while efforts continue to rescue the victims and track down the remaining abductors.
Edo Commissioner of Police, Betty Otimenyin, has ordered reinforcements from the anti-kidnapping unit, Police Mobile Force, and military personnel to ensure the unconditional release of the priest and seminarian.
