One of the sacred cars torched.
By Anietie Akpan
A new dimension of crime is sneaking into Cross River state as unknown persons on Thursday, February 26 attacked and set ablaze a portion of St Mary’s Catholic Church in Boki Local Government Area (LGA) of the state.
The incident according to reports occurred at about 3 am (in the morning) in St. Mary Quasi Parrish Catholic Church, Katchuan Irruan.
The report said, “unknown individuals unlawfully entered the church premises and set fire to the Sacrament area inside the church. The fire caused significant damage to sacred items and parts of the altar area.
“In addition, the Rev. Father’s vehicles, which were parked within the church compound, were also set ablaze and the vehicles sustained extensive damage as a result of the fire”.
Accordingly, the report said emergency responders contacted made efforts to contain the fire and prevented further destruction.
The State Command’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Sunday Eitokpah, confirmed the incident saying, “investigation is ongoing. Further development will be communicated accordingly”.
He said, information reaching the Police indicated that “some unknown arsonists gained entry into St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Katchuan Iruan, Boki LGA, 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.
“No suspect has been identified at this time. 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 the scene of the fire incident has been visited, photographs taken, the case incidented and referred to Okunde Police Station for discreet investigation.
