The Adamawa State Police Command has successfully rescued two Catholic priests who were abducted by suspected members of their own church, following a coordinated operation targeting criminal hideouts in the state.
According to a statement released on Sunday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje, the rescue operation took place at a remote hideout in Gwaida Malam village, located between Numan and Demsa Local Government Areas.
A 34-year-old suspect, Tahamado Jonathan Demian, along with other yet-to-be-identified accomplices, was apprehended for allegedly kidnapping the two priests—Reverend Fathers Abraham Samman of the Catholic Diocese of Yola and Matthew David Dusami of the Catholic Diocese of Jalingo. Nguroje revealed that the suspects are members of the same church as the victims.
“The Command’s planned operation successfully rescued the two Reverend Fathers unhurt, and no ransom was paid. The victims are currently receiving medical attention,” the statement confirmed.
The police also recovered a locally fabricated assault rifle, a handset, and SIM cards during the operation. The suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, CP Dankombo Morris, commended the support from the government, security agencies, and the public. He urged continued cooperation to enhance swift responses to security threats.
The operation, which commenced on February 21, 2025, is part of the command’s broader strategy to combat criminal activities in the state.
