Police launch rescue operation for kidnapped Imo Catholic priest

The Imo Police Command says it has launched an intensive operation to rescue Rev. Fr. John Ubaechu, reportedly kidnapped on Ejemekuru Road in Oguta Local Government Area on Sunday.

The command’s Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen in Owerri on Monday.

Okoye stated that “an intelligence-driven operation has been launched to apprehend the suspects”.

He urged members of the public to assist in the investigation by providing any relevant information to the nearest police station or via the following emergency lines: 08034773600 and 08158024755.

Freedomonline  reports that the Catholic Archdiocese of Owerri had in a statement, signed by the Archdiocesan Chancellor/Secretary, Rev. Fr. Patrick Mbarah, disclosed the kidnap of Ubaechu.

The statement read in part: “I am directed to inform you that one of our priests, Rev. Fr. John Ubaechu, was kidnapped in the evening of Sunday, March 23, 2025.

“Rev. Fr. John Ubaechu is the Parish Priest of Holy Family Catholic Church, Izombe.

“The sad incident occurred along Ejemekwuru Road in Oguta Local Government Area of Imo.

“He was kidnapped on his way to the Priests’ Annual Retreat.”

Mbarah urged the faithful and all men and women of goodwill to earnestly pray for the quick and safe release of the priest.

“We commend our brother, Rev. Fr. John Ubaechu, to the powerful intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of Priests, for his speedy release from the hands of his abductors,” he added.