The Plateau State Police Command has successfully rescued the wife and one daughter of a pastor who was abducted from their home in Bokkos Local Government Area of the state. The incident occurred in the early hours of December 22 at Makudang Mangor village, sparking fear among residents and a swift response from security agencies.
According to sources, suspected kidnappers broke into the residence of Pastor Gayus Tashvwam, who serves at the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) LCC, taking him, his wife, and two daughters away. The attackers reportedly struck around 12:20 a.m., taking advantage of the late hour when most of the family members were asleep.
The abduction immediately alarmed neighbors, who reported the attack to local authorities. Acting on the report, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Bokkos mobilized a joint operation involving police officers and local hunters. This collaborative approach, combining official security forces with local knowledge, proved effective in locating and rescuing the victims.
The police and hunters tracked the kidnappers to nearby bushes where they successfully rescued the pastor’s wife and one of his daughters. Thankfully, both were unharmed during the ordeal. The swift action by the security team prevented a potential tragedy and was praised by residents of the area.
“Security forces have increased patrols in the area and are working tirelessly to locate Pastor Tashvwam and his remaining daughter, as well as apprehend the suspects,” a source familiar with the operation said.
While the rescue operation saved two of the pastor’s family members, authorities are continuing their search for Pastor Tashvwam and his other daughter, who remain in the custody of the kidnappers. The police have vowed to do everything necessary to ensure the safe return of the remaining victims.
Local residents have expressed relief over the successful rescue but also called for stronger security measures to prevent further abductions. Bokkos and surrounding areas have experienced sporadic incidents of kidnapping in recent years, making security a major concern for the community.
Kidnapping for ransom has become an increasing problem in Plateau State and other parts of Nigeria. In recent times, both rural and urban areas have reported cases where families, clergy members, and business owners are targeted. Security experts say kidnappers often exploit late-night hours and isolated locations, similar to the Bokkos incident, making vigilance and prompt reporting crucial for rescue efforts.
Authorities have urged residents to be cautious, report any suspicious movements, and collaborate with local security outfits. In many communities, local hunters and vigilante groups work alongside the police to track and apprehend criminals. This partnership has proved essential in responding quickly to abductions, as seen in the recent rescue operation in Bokkos.
The Plateau State Police Command has assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to secure the area and bring the perpetrators to justice. Police spokespersons have reiterated the commitment to protecting lives and property, especially in areas vulnerable to kidnappings.
The command has also called on community members to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies. Citizens are encouraged to provide timely information that could help locate victims and apprehend suspects.
Plateau State, located in Nigeria’s North-Central region, has experienced sporadic cases of kidnapping over the years. Bokkos Local Government Area, known for its rural settlements, has occasionally reported security challenges, often due to its remote terrain.
Pastors and religious leaders have occasionally been targeted, raising concerns about the safety of clergy families. In many cases, kidnappers demand ransom payments, making swift police response essential to prevent harm to victims.
The recent operation in Makudang Mangor village demonstrates that prompt reporting, collaboration between law enforcement and local hunters, and coordinated security measures can lead to successful rescues and curb criminal activities.
Residents of Bokkos have welcomed the rescue operation and are hopeful for the safe return of Pastor Tashvwam and his daughter. Many expressed gratitude to the police and local hunters for their courage and quick action. Some community members have called for increased security patrols, especially at night, to deter future attacks.