Adamawa: 34-Year-Old Altar Servant Arrested for Alleged Abduction of Two Reverend Fathers

From Umar Dankano, Yola

The Adamawa State Police Command has arrested Tahamado J. Demian, a 34-year-old altar servant, for allegedly orchestrating the abduction of two Reverend Fathers in Numan.

The clergymen, Abraham Samman of the Catholic Diocese of Yola and Mathew David Dusami of the Catholic Diocese of Jalingo, were kidnapped about two weeks ago, with their abductors demanding a ₦10 million ransom. However, when the suspect sensed danger at the ransom collection point, he fled, abandoning his motorcycle, which later led to his arrest.

Upon his apprehension, police searched his residence, where the two victims were found alive, along with a locally fabricated pistol.

Confirming the development in a statement issued over the weekend, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Suleiman Nguroje, said a coordinated rescue operation was carried out in a criminal hideout located in Gwaida Malam village, a remote area between Numan and Demsa LGAs.

“The operation, which commenced on February 21, 2025, targeted various criminal hideouts across the state and yielded positive results. The suspect, Tahamado Jonathan Demian, a member of the same church as the victims, was arrested for masterminding their abduction.

“Our planned operation successfully rescued the two Reverend Fathers unharmed, with no ransom paid. The victims are currently receiving medical attention,” Nguroje stated.

He further disclosed that a locally fabricated assault rifle and a handset with SIM cards were recovered from the suspect.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, CP Dankombo Morris, commended the state government, security agencies, and the public for their support. He urged continued collaboration to enhance security and ensure swift responses to emergencies.

The police confirmed that the suspect will be prosecuted upon the conclusion of investigations.