Suspected gunmen have reportedly invaded St. Joseph Catholic Church in Inoyi, Affa, in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State, abducting a seminarian and several other worshippers.
The attack reportedly occurred on Sunday morning as worshippers gathered for service amid heavy rainfall.
According to accounts from residents, the attackers, believed to be at least seven in number, stormed the church premises and whisked away some worshippers, including the seminarian.
Witnesses said panic broke out as people fled the scene while others attempted to pursue the attackers into nearby bushes.
Residents, however, said they were unable to rescue the victims because the gunmen were heavily armed.
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Some community members lamented the growing insecurity in the area, noting that even local vigilantes lacked the weapons needed to confront the criminals.
They also called on the government and security agencies to intervene and strengthen security measures within the community.
According to the reports, one of the victims had returned to the community to attend his father’s burial before he was abducted.
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies had yet to issue an official statement on the incident.