Gunmen abducted two Catholic reverend sisters, Vincentia Nwankwo and Grace Okoli, on Ufuma Road in Orumba North LGA, Anambra. The victims were reportedly returning from a vocational association meeting at Ogboji community late Tuesday evening.
Church Calls for Prayers After Gunmen Abduct Sisters
In a statement signed by Maria Ikeotuonye, Secretary-General of the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Onitsha, the victims’ abduction was confirmed. The statement, titled “Notification of Kidnap and Call for Prayers,” requested fervent prayers for their safe and speedy release.
The church prayed for the intercession of the Blessed Mother Mary and urged the public to join in praying for the victims’ unconditional freedom.
Police Launch Rescue Operation After Gunmen Abduct Victims
The Anambra State Police Command confirmed that a police-led joint operation is underway to rescue the victims. SP Tochukwu Ikenga stated that the abduction occurred while the sisters were returning from their vocational service meeting.
According to him, the Commissioner of Police, CP Nnaghe Itam, and the Deputy Commissioner of Police visited the crime scene for a spot assessment. Ikenga noted that the police are following some clues to track down the kidnappers and rescue the sisters.
The Reverend Are Sisters Serving in Prominent Schools
The victims, Sr. Vincentia Nwankwo and Sr. Grace Okoli, hold significant positions in educational institutions. Sr. Nwankwo serves as Principal of Archbishop Charles Harvey Memorial Model Secondary School in Ufuma, while Sr. Okoli is a teacher at Immaculata Girls Model Secondary School, Nnewi.
The church and the police authorities are determined to ensure the victims’ safe return. Further updates regarding the incident and rescue efforts are expected soon.
