Police Arrest Church Member For Kidnapping Two Catholic Priests

The Adamawa State Police Command has detained a 34-year-old individual belonging to the same church as two Catholic priests, Rev. Fr. Abraham Samman and Rev. Fr. Matthew David Dusami, from the Catholic Dioceses of Yola and Jalingo respectively, in connection with their abduction.

SP Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje, the command’s spokesperson, revealed this development in a statement issued on Saturday, March 8, 2025, noting that the suspect, identified as Tahamado Jonathan Demian, was apprehended after the priests were freed from a criminal hideout located in Gwaida Malam village.

The Police Public Relations Officer stated that the Reverend fathers were liberated without injuries and are presently under medical care.

“In a bid to ensure protection of lives and property, a safe and secured environment in the state, the command executed a well-coordinated rescue mission at a specific criminal hideout positioned in a secluded area of Gwaida Malam village, linking sections of Numan and Demsa LGAs,” the statement elaborated.

“These rescue operations, initiated on 21st February, 2025, across multiple criminal hideouts within the state, produced successful outcomes as one Tahamado Jonathan Demian, a 34-year-old member of the same church as the victims, was detained for the kidnapping of his two Reverend fathers (Abraham Samman and Matthew David Dusami) of Catholic Dioceses Yola and Jalingo respectively.

The Command’s strategic efforts effectively liberated the two Reverend fathers unharmed, with no ransom paid. The victims are currently undergoing medical treatment.

“The suspect was captured and is now in custody for a thorough investigation.

“Investigations thus far have resulted in the recovery of: (1) One locally fabricated Assault rifle. (2) Handset and sim cards.

“The Commissioner of Police, CP Dankombo Morris, Psc (+), conveyed appreciation for the backing the command receives from the Government, sister security agencies, and the general public.

“He thus urged them to maintain the cooperation and teamwork for prompt responses to emergency circumstances.

“The police Boss added that together, we will ensure peace and security across the State and beyond through diligent prosecution of the suspect.”

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli