Kidnapped Catholic Priest Found Dead in Kaduna, Security Forces Intensify Search for Perpetrators
By; Zagazola Makama
The body of Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu, who was abducted on March 4, has been discovered in Mafan, Atakar Community, Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama hat the Catholic priest, aged 44, was kidnapped from his residence at St. Mary Catholic Church, Tachira Atakar, around 9:15 p.m. on Tuesday.
A joint security team conducting a search operation found Fr. Okechukwu’s body with signs of violence at approximately 10:15 a.m. on Wednesday.
The remains have been transported to St. Louis Hospital, Zonkwa, awaiting a post-mortem examination.
Security forces have intensified efforts to apprehend those responsible for the abduction and murder.
“We have launched an aggressive manhunt for those responsible, and we are working closely with local intelligence sources to bring them to justice,” the officer added.
The Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan expressed profound grief over the incident, describing Fr. Okechukwu as a dedicated servant who worked tirelessly in the service of God and humanity.
The diocese urged community members to remain calm and refrain from taking the law into their own hands, emphasizing the importance of allowing security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation.
Security agencies have encouraged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies to assist in maintaining peace and security in the region.
