In a late-night operation, the Plateau State Police Command successfully rescued the wife and one daughter of a pastor who were abducted from their home in Bokkos Local Government Area. The rescue comes amidst a separate, tragic incident where another clergyman in the same area was killed.
Midnight Raid and Swift Police Response
The first incident unfolded in the early hours of Monday, December 22, 2025. At approximately 12:20 a.m., armed kidnappers invaded the residence of Pastor Gayus Tashvwam of the Cocin LCC Church in Makudang Mangor village, Bokkos. The assailants seized the pastor, his wife, and two of his daughters, taking them to an unknown location.
Upon receiving the distress report, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Bokkos swiftly mobilized a combined team of police officers and local hunters. The team immediately launched a search and rescue mission in the area.
Successful Rescue Amid Ongoing Search
While combing the surrounding bushes, the security team located and rescued the pastor's wife and one of his daughters. Both were found unharmed. However, Pastor Tashvwam and his second daughter remain in captivity.
The Plateau Police Command has confirmed that additional personnel have been deployed to the general area. A police statement emphasized that concerted efforts are ongoing to rescue the remaining victims and apprehend the fleeing suspects. Security sources have promised to keep the public updated as the operation progresses.
Separate Tragic Attack Claims Pastor's Life
In a horrifying parallel development, gunmen suspected to be herdsmen attacked and killed another pastor in the same local government area. The victim was the pastor in charge of the Cocin LCC Church in Karfa village, Maguwa ward, Bokkos.
The armed men stormed his pastorium last week, killing him and abducting his wife. Fortunately, vigilant youths from the village pursued the attackers. After a hot chase, the assailants were forced to abandon the pastor's wife and flee. She was subsequently recovered safely by the youths.
These back-to-back incidents have heightened security concerns in the Bokkos area of Plateau State, highlighting the persistent threats faced by communities and religious figures. The police continue their operations to restore calm and ensure the safety of all residents.
