Insecurity: Fear grips Cross River Community As Arsonists Set Fire On Catholic Church
Insecurity: Fear grips Cross River Community As Arsonists Set Fire On Catholic Church
By Idun Maximus
Fear and anxiety have gripped residents of Iruan Community in Boki local government area of Cross River State following the torching of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Katchuan Iruan.
In the early hours of Thursday, at about 3:00 am, arsonists gained entry into the Catholic Church, and burnt all records kept in the sacristy.
The suspects also set ablaze the priest’s Lexus 350 Jeep and a Toyota Corolla car parked within the church premises.
The motive for the attack is still unclear with some residents trying to figure out the basis for the attack.
Community members and residents who visited the scene wept, wailed and expressed deep shock over the incident which is unprecedented in the area.
A resident who craved anonymity said ” this is very shocking and distressing. We have never experienced such atrocious act in Iruan before.
“We live peacefully and welcome visitors across the state and beyond; even non- Christians so we don’t know where this is coming from for now.
“Efforts are ongoing to ascertain those responsible for the unfortunate criminal act. Should any suspect be identified, the information will be promptly communicated”, he said.
Reacting to the incident, Sunday Eitokpah, the Police Public Relations Officer said the police have visited the scene.
He said no arrest has been made so far and the State Police Command has launched a manhunt for the suspected arsonists.
