A shocking incident has rocked Amaimo in Ikeduru Local Government Area of Imo State, where a Catholic priest allegedly shot a boy dead during a New Year Mass on January 1, 2025. The tragedy occurred after the deceased reportedly set off knockouts (fireworks) within the church premises, disrupting the service.
The incident, which quickly went viral on social media, has sparked outrage and mourning within the community. Reports shared via the Facebook handle *For The Love Of Anambra* cited eyewitness accounts claiming the priest, whose identity remains undisclosed, retrieved a firearm and fatally shot the boy.
Local residents and netizens have expressed shock over the event, with many questioning the circumstances under which a clergy member would possess and use a firearm.
When contacted, the spokesperson for the Imo State Police Command, Henry Okoye, confirmed awareness of the incident. He stated that a detailed investigation has been launched to determine the facts surrounding the tragedy.
“We have launched a detailed investigation to ascertain the remote facts surrounding the incident. Further developments on the case will be communicated in due course,” Okoye said.
The incident has divided opinions online, with some expressing outrage at the alleged actions of the priest while others debated the circumstances leading to the shooting.
Facebook user Malachy Chukwunyereugo commented, “He will spend the rest of his life in prison.” Another user, Lyn Chy, raised concerns about a priest owning a firearm, calling it “somehow.”
Peace Ijeoma criticized those defending the priest, writing, “May we try to be lovers of God and not lovers of the men of God this 2025. RIP to the boy.”
On X (formerly Twitter), Bloc Chief tweeted, “I thought this happens in the USA? How can this happen in Imo?” Another user, AsabaBoi2Man, speculated, “Maybe he has been abducted before by gunmen… only God knows what he was thinking.”
The tragic event has drawn attention to gun ownership, clergy conduct, and public safety during communal celebrations. As investigations unfold, residents and stakeholders are demanding accountability and justice for the deceased.
The community remains in mourning as they await clarity on the circumstances that led to this unfortunate loss of life.
