Police Rescue Kidnapped Catholic Priests and NDDC Aide
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has successfully rescued multiple kidnap victims in separate operations across Adamawa and Bayelsa States, highlighting its intensified efforts to combat organized crime.
According to Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, security operatives executed coordinated operations that led to the safe release of the victims without any ransom payment.
In Bayelsa State, the police rescued a Special Assistant to the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) who was abducted on March 7, 2025, in Ayakoro Community, Ogbia Local Government Area.
“Acting swiftly, security operatives restricted the movement of the kidnappers, exerting pressure that led to the safe release of Mr. Akari and another unidentified victim. The police confirmed that no ransom was paid in securing their freedom,” the statement read.
In Adamawa State, security operatives also secured the release of two Catholic priests, Reverend Fathers Abraham Samman and Matthew David Dusami, who had been kidnapped on February 21, 2025.
“Following intelligence-driven investigations, security operatives arrested one Tahamado Jonathan Demian, 34, a suspected accomplice believed to be a member of the same church as the victims. The operation led to the priests’ safe rescue on March 8, 2025.”
Read also: Tragedy in Kaduna: Catholic Priest kidnapped, Killed in Mysterious Circumstances
During the raid, authorities recovered a locally fabricated assault rifle, ammunition, a mobile handset, and several SIM cards. Efforts are ongoing to track down other members of the kidnapping gang.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, commended the officers involved in the operations for their bravery and assured Nigerians of the Force’s continued dedication to dismantling criminal networks.
The police urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information to aid crime prevention efforts.
