Suspected hoodlums invaded the Mount Zion Gospel Church, Aka-Itiam Assembly, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, weekend and razed it down completely.

The attackers claimed the prayers and activities of the church were frustrating their criminal operations in the area.

Punch reports that the heavily armed youths stormed the sanctuary, last Friday, while the people were asleep, wrecked havoc and vanished.

The still shocked Resident Pastor, Elijah Inyang, said the relationship between Aka –Itiam Assembly established June 10, 2011 and the community was convivial and there was no leadership tussle.

“Well, I am short of words because this type of incident has never happened. They broke into the church and as you can see, destroyed our altar, set it on fire and destroyed all the musical instruments.

“When I came in this morning, I saw smoke billowing from the place. Perhaps, their intention was to burn down the building, but God had to stop them.

“No one has been caught and I have never had any issue with my members. Therefore, it is still a surprise to me. I am appealing to the Akwa Ibom state government and all the security agencies to come to our aid. The matter should be investigated to know the cause and also bring those involved to book to avoid future occurrence,” he said.