The Adamawa State Police Command has launched a manhunt for the armed men who kidnapped two Catholic priests in the early hours of Saturday, February 22, 2025.

The victims, Reverend Father Mathew David Dusami of Yola Catholic Diocese and Reverend Father Abraham Samman of Jalingo Diocese, were abducted from their residence in Gwaida Malam, Numan Local Government Area of Adamawa State.

The Adamawa State Commissioner of Police, CP Dankombo Morris, strongly condemned the attack, describing it as “an unprovoked kidnapping of religious leaders who are actively working to promote peace in society.”

According to a press release signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Suleiman Nguroje, the kidnappers stormed the priests’ residence at about 4:00 a.m., armed with dangerous weapons, and forcibly took them away.

In response, CP Morris has deployed a special police team to track down the perpetrators, ensure the safe rescue of the victims, and bring those responsible to justice.

“The progressive efforts of the command will definitely bring the perpetrators and other persons involved to face the full wrath of the law,” the police statement read. “The command remains committed to safeguarding lives and resisting all forms of violent crimes in the state.”

The police urged the public to remain calm and provide useful and timely information that could assist in the rescue operation.

“We seek the support and cooperation of the general public to give useful and timely information that will aid our quest to rescue the victims and apprehend the criminals,” Nguroje added.

The kidnapping of religious leaders has sparked outrage among the Christian community and the general public, with many calling on security agencies to intensify efforts in curbing the rising wave of abductions in the region.

Authorities are assuring residents that efforts are in top gear to track the kidnappers and ensure the safe return of the abducted priests. (The Guardian: Text, Excluding Headline)

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