Gunmen have attacked St. Andrews Anglican Church in Isiokwe, Lilu community, Ihiala LGA of Anambra State, killing two people, including the wife of the church priest.
The attackers also burnt vehicles, the cleric’s residence, and parts of the church building.
It was gathered that the incident occurred on Sunday as worshippers prepared for service.
A witness said heavily armed assailants stormed the premises, opened fire, and set buildings and vehicles ablaze.
“They brutally murdered the priest’s wife and one other person, injured many, and razed the priest’s house, church vehicles, and parts of the main church building,” the witness said.
Police spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga confirmed the attack on Monday.
He said Commissioner of Police CP Ikioye Orutugu has intensified intelligence-led operations and deployed a joint security team to the area.
Ikenga quoted the CP as condemning the “heinous and abominable act” against innocent worshippers, describing it as an assault on peace, the sanctity of life, and freedom of worship.
He assured that security agencies would “relentlessly hunt down the perpetrators.”
He said operatives are following all leads and vowed that no resource will be spared to ensure the attackers are apprehended and prosecuted.
Ikenga urged residents to remain calm and support the joint security team with useful information to aid the investigation.
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