The Imo State Police Command has arrested 32-year-old Pastor Ikenna Emmanuel and his alleged accomplice, Franklin Chizoba, for reportedly raping a 20-year-old woman under the guise of organizing a prayer session.

According to the Police Spokesperson, DSP Henry Okoye, Pastor Emmanuel, who leads Authentic Power City Church in Umuobom, Ideato-South Local Government Area, allegedly lured the victim on June 30. Chizoba reportedly brought the woman to the pastor, who then gave her a drink laced with drugs at his residence.

“The victim became dizzy shortly after consuming the drink, after which both suspects had unlawful carnal knowledge of her,” DSP Okoye stated.

During interrogation, both men reportedly confessed to the offence and admitted to engaging in homosexual acts. They were subsequently charged in court on August 12 and remanded at the Correctional Facility in Owerri, pending trial.

The police have assured the public that investigations are ongoing and called for vigilance against individuals who exploit religious authority to commit crimes.