Police arrest Catholic priest in Imo for shooting boy dead

A Catholic priest accused of shooting a boy dead has been arrested.

The incident reportedly happened after the youngster set off firecrackers inside a church during a celebration of Holy Mass, which signifies the start of the new year.

The Holy Mass was celebrated in St. Colombus Parish Amaimo, a community in the Ikeduru Local Government Area of Imo State, Southeast Nigeria.

Police authorities are yet to disclose the identity of the deceased victim and the Catholic priest.

Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Henry Okoye, confirmed the development. He said the Catholic priest has been arrested by the police in connection with the incident.

According to him, a thorough inquiry has been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

The Nigeria Police Force has outlawed fireworks, which are frequently lit during Christmas and New Year’s festivities.