Reports indicate that a Tanzanian National Melkiori Dominick Mahinini, 27, has been abducted in Nigeria, with the kidnappers demanding $70,000 in ransom.
The Major Seminarian who was sent to Nigeria for studies by the Africa Missionary Society comes from Kabanga Parish in Kigoma Region.
Kigoma Catholic Diocese Bishop Joseph Mlola said the Frater was abducted in the Minna Province in Nigeria alongside Priest Paul Sanogo from Burkina Faso.
“The two were abducted on August 3, 2023 by unknown people at the Saint Luke Gyedna Parish in the Minna Province,” said Bishop Mlola.
“The Frater has been in Nigeria for a missionary mission before proceeding for theological studies. We should pray to God that the two are rescued from any dangers and return in peace, light and complete freedom,” he added.
Dr. Benson Bana, the Tanzanian ambassador to Nigeria, acknowledged the occurrence and stated that all required steps are being taken to guarantee the two are released safely.
He noted that the country of Nigeria experiences many abductions and that precautions are being taken to protect the two.
“After receiving reports of abduction, the Embassy has informed the government at home (Tanzania). We have also communicated the matter to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Nigeria as required by diplomatic procedures,” he told The Citizen over the phone.
He claimed that on August 3, a gang of unidentified individuals broke into Saint Luke Gyedna Parish, opened fire, and kidnapped two of the four people present.
The former University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) dean claimed to have learned that kidnappers are demanding a ransom of 100 million naira, or Sh325.1 million, according to information they have received. He claims that the desired sum is $70,000, or more than Sh170 million.
“We are supposed to be careful with these people because they can inflate the ransom to over 500 million naira,” he cautioned.
Dr Bana said currently, they are cooperating with the Africa Missionary Society who have also already reported the matter to law enforcers in Nigeria.
The Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC) president, Bishop Gervas Nyaisonga, said the Church has been disappointed with the cruel abduction incident.
“We insist on the importance of respecting the principles of human rights and stir on diplomatic efforts to ensure abducted people are unconditionally freed,” he told this paper, saying the Church is praying for the abductees to be rescued.
The Frater’s father, Mr Dominick Mahinini, has asked the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation to collaborate with the Church to ensure his son is freed.
Furthermore, he said he received reports of his abduction on August 3, through the Parish Priest.
“I have nothing to do rather than praying to God for his life. I ask the government’s support over the matter,” he said at his Masanza home in Kabanga Ward, Kasulu District.
He thinks the Diocese need to work with the Tanzanian authorities to make sure his kid is released safely.
He claimed that despite the fact that the occurrence had taken place far away, his family had been shocked and alarmed when they learned of the abduction.
Melkiori, the fifth child in a family of nine, was called to serve God, according to Mr. Mahinini, who also noted that he had a responsibility to help Melkiori as a dad.
