The Imo State police command has confirmed the kidnap of the Parish Priest of St. Theresa’s Catholic Parish, Obollo, in the Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of the state, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Azubuike.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Henry Okoye, confirmed the incident on Wednesday.

Mr Okoye said that the command had launched a “desperate search” to rescue the priest from his abductors.

He said, “The Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, has set up a high-powered team to investigate, rescue the priest and bring the perpetrators to book.”

It was gathered that Azubuike was kidnapped at Ayayi Community, near Obollo, while returning from an assignment on Tuesday.

The Chancellor/Secretary of the Catholic Diocese of Okigwe, Rev. Fr. Princewill Iwuanyanwu, also confirmed the kidnap in a statement made to journalists in Owerri on Wednesday.

The diocese appealed for prayers from the clergy and laity for the priest’s safety and swift return.

“I am directed to inform you that one of our priests, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Azubuike, was kidnapped Tuesday evening, November 5, at about 6pm. We solicit your fervent prayers that he may come back to us safe and sound, while trusting in your goodwill and solidarity,” the statement read.

 (NAN)