Imo State, Nigeria –A Catholic priest, Rev. Father Joseph Enyinaya, is under investigation in connection with the fatal shooting of a young boy at St. Columbus Catholic Church in Amaimo, Ikeduru Local Government Area..
The incident, which occurred on December 31, 2024, reportedly began when the boy threw a firecracker, locally known as a “knockout,” into the church premises. Witnesses claim the priest responded by retrieving a firearm and shooting the boy, resulting in his death.
Confirming the incident, the Imo State Police Command announced the arrest of Rev. Father Enyinaya. Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Henry Okoye, disclosed, “The priest is currently in custody. The body of the deceased has been recovered and taken to Atta Mortuary for further examination.”
The PPRO assured the public that an in-depth investigation is underway to establish the facts surrounding the tragedy.
“Investigators are working to uncover the chain of events and motivations that led to this unfortunate incident,” Okoye stated.
More Read
The shocking event has sparked widespread reactions, with community members expressing grief and outrage over the use of deadly force in response to a firecracker incident.
Local authorities are calling for patience and restraint as they seek to unravel the details of the case.
