According to the statement sighted by nicolekaimasblog, the criminals who attacked the Reverend were armed robbers not members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), like the army claimed.
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The statement signed by Rev. Emmanuel Okonkwo, revealed that on the wee hours of Sunday, October 31, armed men had invaded the residence of the bishop of Orlu catholic diocese.
The statement reads;
“The Catholic Diocese of Orlu wishes to use this medium to make official statement on the armed robbery incidence at the Bishop's house Orlu.
“In the early hours of Sunday 31st October 2021, around 2:00am, a group of armed robbers broke into the Bishop's house. They were immediately confronted by a joint team of internal security and local vigilantes. Although nobody was hurt, they made away with some valuables.
“After some interval, the army arrived at the scene of the armed robbery and took some photographs. Thanks to Divine providence and protection, both the Bishop and his household are safe and unharmed.
“The Catholic Diocese of Orlu wishes to acknowledge the outpouring of prayers and concern from the faithful and the wider society while calling for intense prayers for peace and security of lives and properties of our people.
The diocese has forgiven these robbers while praying for their repentance.”
It would be recalled that the Director Army Public Relations, Ontema Nwachukwu, had on Sunday, released a statement claiming to have foiled a kidnap attack by IPOB.
The statement had read;
“Troops conducting Exercise GOLDEN DAWN Sector 3 have foiled an attempted kidnap and robbery of Most Reverend Augustine Ukwuoma at the Orlu Diocesan Catholic Secretariat, BSC Road, Orlu Imo State.
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“The troops in response to a distress call at about 2:30am on Sunday 31 October 2021, swiftly moved to the scene forcing the assailants to take to their heels thereby abandoning their mission. The Bishop, his Secretary and Assistant Secretary are safe and unhurt.
“Troops will continue to deny freedom of action to members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra/Eastern Security Network (IPOB/ESN) and other criminal gangs operating within the sector especially as the elections in Anambra State draws nearer and during the yuletide season.
“Members of the public are advised to report suspicious movement of criminals as well as hide outs of the outlawed IPOB/ESN to law enforcement agencies as the group is only out to intimidate, steal and kidnap law-abiding citizens for ransom.”
It would also be recalled that a fortnight ago, Rv. Dr Augustine Ukwuoma had released a joint statement with traditional rulers in support of the immediate release of the leader of IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu.
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