Crime
Rivers Police Arrest Pastor for Flogging 20 Children in Alleged ‘Spiritual Cleansing’
The Rivers State Police Command has arrested Pastor Ifediorah Onyeibor Joseph for allegedly flogging 20 children, including minors, during what he claimed was a church “spiritual cleansing” program.
Police spokesperson SP Grace Iringe-Oko confirmed the arrest in a statement, revealing that the children were rescued after a disturbing video of the incident surfaced online.
According to the statement, Pastor Joseph had organized a three-day program for children in his church, during which he claimed he was “inspired by the Holy Spirit” to carry out the flogging as part of a cleansing ritual.
Following a tip-off, police operatives conducted an intelligence-led operation, arresting the pastor and several church members at the scene.
SP Iringe-Oko said a full investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident, with further updates to be provided as the case develops.