A Catholic priest, identified as Rev. Father Joseph Enyinaya, has been taken into police custody after fatally shooting a teenager who set off fireworks inside the church.
The incident took place at St. Columbus Catholic Church in Amaimo, Ikeduru Local Government Area, Imo State.
The tragedy occurred during the New Year Mass on January 1, 2025, when a young boy allegedly set off a banger inside the church.
Witnesses allege that the priest responded to the commotion by pulling out a firearm and shooting the young boy.
The incident has left the community in shock, with widespread calls for a thorough investigation to uncover the truth behind what happened.
According to a Facebook post on the page “For The Love Of Anambra,” witnesses reported that the priest fired at the teenager shortly after the fireworks were set off.
The Imo State Police confirmed the priest’s arrest and stated that the teenager’s body had been transported to the Atta Ikeduru Mortuary.
Police spokesperson Henry Okoye announced that a detailed investigation is underway to determine the facts surrounding the tragedy.
“The priest is in custody, and the boy’s body has been recovered and taken to the Atta Ikeduru Mortuary.
“The investigation aims to provide clarity on the sequence of events,” Okoye said during a statement to The Nation on Thursday.
