Troops of Sector 7, Operation SAFE HAVEN, have arrested the suspected killers of Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu, who was murdered after being kidnapped in Tachira village, Kaura Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State.
According to a statement released by Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, the Media Information Officer for Operation SAFE HAVEN, the arrests were made on March 25, 2025, following a well-coordinated intelligence-led operation. Troops raided the prime suspect’s hideout at Ruga settlement in Warsa-Piti village, Lere LGA, Kaduna State.
During the operation, the prime suspect, 33-year-old Pate Yau, was apprehended. Preliminary investigations revealed that Yau confessed to being hired by Douglas Henry, a resident of the same house as the slain priest, to carry out the kidnapping. Following this confession, troops launched a follow-up operation and arrested Douglas Henry at Agwan Sariki Tachira in Kaura LGA.
Background of the Incident
Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu was abducted from his residence in Tachira village earlier in March 2025. His abduction sent shockwaves through the local community, prompting security agencies to intensify efforts to secure his release. Unfortunately, despite the efforts of local authorities and community leaders, the priest was found murdered shortly after his abduction.
Security sources reported that the kidnapping was carefully planned, with the perpetrators targeting the priest due to his influence within the community. The tragic incident sparked outrage and calls for increased security in the region.
The breakthrough in the case came after intelligence reports traced the suspects’ movements to the Ruga settlement in Warsa-Piti village. Acting on the intelligence, troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN swiftly mobilized and conducted a surprise raid on the hideout. Yau was arrested without resistance.
During questioning, Yau reportedly confessed to planning the abduction in collaboration with Douglas Henry, who allegedly provided information about the priest’s movements and security arrangements. Yau further disclosed that Henry promised him financial compensation for executing the abduction.
Following Yau’s confession, troops immediately launched a follow-up operation and arrested Henry at his residence in Agwan Sariki Tachira. Both suspects were taken into military custody for further interrogation.
The suspects are currently undergoing detailed interrogation to uncover the full extent of their involvement and any potential accomplices. Security officials believe the investigation may lead to the dismantling of a larger kidnapping network operating in the region.
Major Zhakom commended the troops for their swift and professional handling of the operation. He reassured the public that Operation SAFE HAVEN remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of residents in Kaduna State and beyond.
“The successful arrest of the suspects is a significant step in addressing the security challenges facing Kaduna State. We urge members of the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing timely information to prevent further criminal activities,” Zhakom stated.
Community leaders and religious organizations have welcomed the arrests, expressing hope that justice will be served. The Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan, where the slain priest served, issued a statement commending the security forces for their swift response and urging the government to implement stronger security measures to prevent similar incidents.
The Kaduna State Government also lauded the security agencies for their efforts and reiterated its commitment to strengthening security infrastructure across the state. Governor Nasir El-Rufai (or current governor) emphasized the need for community cooperation in tackling insecurity and assured that those responsible for the priest’s death would face the full weight of the law.
The arrest of the suspects marks a significant milestone in the fight against kidnapping and organized crime in Kaduna State. Security forces have pledged to maintain heightened surveillance and intelligence gathering to prevent future incidents and ensure lasting peace in the region.
