One Pastor Ifediorah Onyeibor Joseph has been arrested by operatives of the Rivers State Police Command for allegedly subjecting children, particularly minors, to dehumanization.

The spokesperson of the command, SP Grace Iringe-Oko said in a statement that the 20 children were rescued after the distressing video emerged online.

She explained that the pastor had organized a three-day program for children in the church for a “spiritual cleaning”.

According to the police, the pastor claimed that he was inspired by the Holy Spirit to conduct the purported spiritual cleansing on the innocent children.

“Upon receiving this information, Operatives from the Rivers State Police Command, through coordinated intelligence, arrested the pastor and several Church members at the scene.

“A thorough investigation is currently underway to unravel the circumstances surrounding this incident. Further updates will be made public as more information becomes available”, she added.