AFRICA/NIGERIA - The two priests kidnapped on February 22 were released unharmed thanks to a police operation

Abuja (Agenzia Fides) – The two priests kidnapped in Nigeria on February 22 (see Fides, 24/02/2025) have been released. Father Matthew David Dutsemi of the diocese of Yola and Father Abraham Saummam of the diocese of Jalingo had been captured by armed men who attacked the rectory where the two priests were staying in Gweda-Mallam, in the State of Adamawa, northeastern Nigeria, in the early hours of February 22. The two priests were released thanks to a police operation during which one of the alleged kidnappers, Tahamado Demian, was arrested. He is believed to be a member of the parish where the two priests were kidnapped. According to statements by the Adamawa State Police, the law enforcement agencies managed to locate the place where the two hostages were being held in the village of Gwaida Malam, located in the isolated area between the Numan and Demsa regions. The two priests were found unharmed and taken to hospital for examinations.
The police officers also recovered a locally made assault rifle, a mobile phone and several SIM cards during the operation. In the official statement issued on the night of March 8, the police detailed the strategy put in place to rescue the priests and capture the suspect. The law enforcement agencies had carried out targeted operations to uncover the hideouts of the criminals throughout the state and their efforts eventually led them to the place where the priests were being held captive. The police confirmed that no ransom was paid before the release of the victims. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 10/3/2025)

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