The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) on Monday announced that it has rescued kidnapped victims in Bayelsa and Adamawa States.
ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Police Public Relations Officer, who disclosed this in a statement noted that the successful rescue operations in both states highlight the NPF’s dedication to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.
“On March 7th, 2025, at approximately 3:03 PM, a distress call was received reporting the kidnapping of Mr. Loveday Akari, SA to the MD of NDDC, at Ayakoro Community in Ogbia LGA, Bayelsa State. In a swift and decisive response, control measures were immediately activated to restrict the movement of the perpetrators.
“A combined rescue operation was launched, resulting in the safe rescue of Mr. Akari and another individual, both unharmed and without any ransom payment, due to the sustained pressure exerted by the Police, with support from other security operatives,” Adejobi stated.
He continued: “In a separate but equally significant operation, following the report of kidnapped priests, who were kidnapped on 21st February, 2025, in Adamawa State, rescue efforts commenced, targeting some suspected criminal hideouts throughout the state. These operations yielded positive results with the arrest of one Tahamado Jonathan Demian, 34 years old, suspected to be part of the same church as the victims, in connection with the kidnapping of two Reverend Fathers, Abraham Samman and Matthew David Dusami, of the Catholic Dioceses of Yola and Jalingo, respectively.
“The meticulously planned and well coordinated operation led to the successful rescue of both Reverend Fathers on March 8th 2025, unharmed and without any ransom paid. The victims are currently receiving medical attention in a hospital. A locally fabricated assault rifle, some ammunition, and a handset and sim cards were recovered during the investigation, which is ongoing, along with intensified efforts to apprehend other fleeing members of the kidnapping gang.”
The spokesperson said that the successful operations demonstrate the effectiveness of the Force’s coordinated response mechanisms and its commitment to utilising intelligence-led policing to proactively respond to the dynamics of crimes and criminality.
Reacting to the successful operations, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun commended the officers involved for their bravery, dedication, and professionalism.
Egbetokun reiterated the Force’s determination to intensify efforts to dismantle organised crime networks, rescue kidnapped victims, and bring perpetrators to justice.
The security agency urged citizens to continue to cooperate with law enforcement by providing timely and accurate information that can assist in preventing crime and apprehending criminals.
