Police Launch Investigation Into Catholic Church Arson In Cross River

By Kelvin Ololo

The Cross River State Police Command says it has commenced a full investigation into the fire incident that destroyed a Catholic Church building and two vehicles in Katchuan, Boki Local Government Area of the state.

Under the directive of the Commissioner of Police, the Area Commander, Ikom, alongside tactical units from Ikom and Ogoja Area Commands, carried out an on-the-spot assessment and confidence building patrol in the community on February 27, 2026.

The move, according to the Command’s spokesman, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, was aimed at reassuring residents and strengthening security presence following the incident.

Police confirmed that the scene was visited, photographs taken, and the matter formally recorded before being referred to Okunde Police Station for discreet investigation.

The authority said no suspect has been identified at this stage, but efforts are ongoing to track down those responsible. They assured that further developments would be communicated as investigations progress.

The action followed an early morning attack on St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Katchuan Iruan, where suspected arsonists reportedly gained entry into the premises and set parts of the property ablaze.

Church records kept in the sacristy were completely burnt. The attackers also set fire on a Lexus 350 Jeep belonging to the priest and a Toyota Corolla parked within the church compound.

During the police visit, Sir. Euna Esib, Vice Chairman of the Parish Council, confirmed that the incident occurred in the early hours of the previous day. He noted that members of the church have maintained peaceful coexistence with other adherents in the community.

The police advised the church leadership to consider fencing the premises and employing security personnel to enhance protection, while strategic measures are being intensified to apprehend the perpetrators and prevent a recurrence.