Security forces arrest kidnappers of Enugu Catholic seminarian, others [Photo]

In Enugu State, security forces have apprehended three suspects suspected of involvement in the kidnapping of two Catholic seminarians on August 2, 2026, from St Joseph’s Catholic Church in Inoyi-Affa, Udi Local Government Area. The operation, a joint effort by the Department of State Services, Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, Enugu State Forest Guard, and other agencies, resulted in the seizure of four AK-47 rifles, seven magazines, and 133 rounds of ammunition.

One suspect was killed during a shootout with security personnel, while the remaining two were arrested and presented at the DSS headquarters in Enugu on Monday evening. The victims, Seminarian Lawrence Igbo and Emmanuel Onwudi, were successfully released. Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, represented by Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, revealed that the suspects were identified through the state's advanced security infrastructure.

The ransom paid to the kidnappers was fully recovered. Governor Mbah expressed gratitude to the DSS, Army, Police, Forest Guard, and other security agencies for their cooperation in the successful operation. He assured that his administration would continue to prioritize security to safeguard lives and property in the state.