Police Intensify Fight Against Organized Crime & Rescue Kidnapped Victims In Bayelsa And Adamawa States 

The Nigeria Police Force has continued to demonstrate determined commitment to combating organized crime, particularly kidnapping, through intensified operational efforts and strategic interventions across the country. Recent successful rescue operations in Bayelsa and Adamawa States underscore the Force’s dedication to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.

On 7th March, 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.

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.

These successful operations demonstrate the effectiveness of the Nigeria Police Force’s coordinated response mechanisms and its commitment to utilizing intelligence-led policing to proactively respond to the dynamics of crimes and criminality. The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has commended the officers involved in these operations for their bravery, dedication, and professionalism.

The IGP reiterated the Force’s determination to intensify efforts to dismantle organized crime networks, rescue kidnapped victims, and bring perpetrators to justice.

The Nigeria Police Force has urged citizens to continue to cooperate with law enforcement by providing timely and accurate information that can assist in preventing crime and apprehending criminals.