How an Altar Servant Masterminded the Abduction of Two Recently Rescued Catholic Priests

Authorities in Adamawa State have uncovered the shocking involvement of an altar servant in the recent abduction of two Catholic priests. The two clerics, Rev. Fathers Matthew David Dusami and Abraham Samman, were rescued after being found tied up inside a house belonging to the suspect, identified as Taledo Demiel.

Demiel, who served as an altar assistant in the Catholic Church, is alleged to have orchestrated the kidnapping and demanded a ransom of N10 million. The priests were taken from their residence at a convent in Gweda Mallam, Numan Local Government Area, in the early hours of February 22, 2025. Reports indicate that armed attackers stormed their home around 4 a.m. and whisked them away.

Security operatives tracking the ransom drop found that Demiel abandoned the money and fled upon suspecting a police presence. He left behind his motorcycle, which investigators traced back to him. When security personnel raided his house, they discovered the priests locked inside a room and subsequently rescued them.

The Bishop of Yola Diocese, Dr. Stephen Dami Mamza, confirmed the rescue of the priests in a statement but declined to comment on the altar servant’s involvement. The clergymen serve in the dioceses of Adamawa and Taraba.

Adamawa State Police Command spokesperson, SP Suleiman Nguroje, also confirmed the abduction, condemning the act as “unprovoked” and vowing that law enforcement would ensure justice is served. Meanwhile, security forces are continuing efforts to locate and apprehend Demiel, who remains at large.