The Adamawa State Police Command has arrested a 34-year-old man, Tahamado Jonathan Demian, for allegedly kidnapping two Catholic priests.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje, disclosed this in a statement issued in Yola on Saturday.
Nguroje said the suspect, a member of the Catholic Church, abducted Rev. Father Abraham Samman of the Yola Catholic Diocese and Rev. Father Matthew David Dusami of the Jalingo Catholic Diocese.
He said the victims were rescued unhurt in a coordinated operation at a criminal hideout in Gwaida Malam village, a remote area linking Numan and Demsa Local Government Areas.
“The rescue operation commenced on Feb. 21, 2025, targeting multiple criminal hideouts in the state. It yielded positive results, leading to the arrest of the suspect.
“The command successfully rescued the Reverend Fathers unhurt, and no ransom was paid. The victims are now receiving medical attention,” he said.
Nguroje said items recovered from the suspect included a locally fabricated assault rifle, a handset, and several SIM cards.
He quoted the Commissioner of Police, Dankombo Morris, as commending the government, sister security agencies, and the public for their support.
The commissioner urged sustained cooperation and collaboration to enhance security and ensure a swift response to emergencies.
Nguroje assured that the police command and other security agencies would remain committed to ensuring peace and security across the state.
He said the suspect was in custody and would be diligently prosecuted.
