A Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Joseph Enyinnaya, has been arrested by the Imo State Police Command for allegedly shooting a teenage boy dead during a New Year Mass at St. Columbus Catholic Church, Amaimo, Ikeduru Local Government Area.
The tragic incident occurred on January 1, 2025, when the boy reportedly set off fireworks inside the church premises, disrupting the service. According to a resident, the priest fired shots into the air to disperse the boys but accidentally discharged his firearm while checking it, fatally striking the teenager.
The shocking event has thrown the community into mourning, with residents demanding a thorough investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding the boy’s death.
Henry Okoye, spokesperson for the Imo State Police Command, confirmed the incident, stating, “We have launched a detailed investigation to ascertain the facts. Updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.”
The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with many questioning how the priest came to possess a firearm. Meanwhile, calls for improved safety measures during religious gatherings have intensified in the wake of this tragedy.
As the investigation unfolds, the local community remains in grief, grappling with the devastating loss at the start of the new year.
