• Gunmen demand N100m ransom for abducted Catholic Priest’s release

Police in Enugu State, yesterday, allegedly killed three members of the indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN) for attempting to enforce illegal sit-at-home order in the state.

Spokesperson for the state police Command, Daniel Ndukwe, said the suspects were ‘neutralised’ at Ezioha Mgbowo community in Awgu Local Council, during a gun duel.

He said: “At about 2:15 a.m., on Monday, September 18, a joint security team, comprising police operatives of the Enugu State Command, Special Forces, and Troops of the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Enugu, acting on credible intelligence, invaded the criminal hideout of IPOB/ESN subversive criminal elements in Ezioha Mgbowo in Awgu Local Council, while they were perfecting plans to enforce the illegal sit-at-home order in the state.

“Three of the hoodlums, who opened fire on the patrol team on sighting them, were neutralised, while several others escaped with gunshot injuries.
“Three pump-action guns, 10 machetes, and other incriminating exhibits were recovered; while an intense manhunt for those on the run is ongoing.”

The Commissioner of Police, Kanayo Uzuegbu, while commending the joint team, reassured the people of adequate security, as they go about their lawful businesses.

Meanwhile, gunmen who abducted a Catholic Priest, Rev. Father M. Okide of the Catholic Diocese of Enugu, and six travellers last Sunday have demanded N100 million ransom for his release.
The Guardian gathered that the incident occurred barely two days after 14 passengers were abducted along the Ugwuogo-Nike road, Nsukka, between 4:30 p.m. and 5:00p.m.

A source said children of the victims were left crying inside their car, before the police came to rescue them.