Catholic Priest, Father Joseph Who Shot Boy Over Knockouts Arrested, Detained

The Imo State Police Command has detained the Catholic priest, Father Joseph Enyinaya, following the fatal shooting of a boy at St. Columbus Catholic Church in Amaimo, Ikeduru Local Government Area.

According to police spokesperson Henry Okoye, the boy was allegedly shot by the priest after setting off fireworks during a church service. The tragic incident occurred as worshippers gathered to mark the end of the year.

“The priest has been arrested, and the body of the boy has been deposited at a mortuary in Atta Ikeduru,” Okoye said.

The Guardian reported that the incident occurred during the New Year Mass on January 1, 2025, in Amaimo, Ikeduru Local Government Area (LGA) of Imo State, and has sparked reactions on social media.

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In a Facebook post shared on the handle, ‘For The Love Of Anambra’on Wednesday, eyewitness accounts were quoted, reporting that after the deceased set off the knockouts, “the priest, whose identity remains undisclosed, picked up a firearm and fatally shot him.”

Meanwhile Okoye also assured the public that the police are committed to uncovering the truth and urged residents to remain calm while the investigation unfolds.

Police have promised to provide further updates as more information becomes available.