Yaounde: After enduring a harrowing week in captivity, Fr. Valentine Mbaibarem, a Catholic priest serving the parish of St. John the Baptist in Madingring, has been released alongside five others who were abducted with him on May 7. The group was taken at gunpoint while traveling on the road between Guidjiba and Cholire in northern Cameroon.

Their release took place just after midnight on May 16, and was officially confirmed by Archbishop Faustin Ambassa Ndjodo of the Archdiocese of Garoua.

Disturbing details have since emerged about Fr. Mbaibarem’s ordeal. According to reports, when the priest was unable to walk on his own, his captors resorted to physical violence to force him forward. While local media outlets suggested a ransom may have been demanded, Archbishop Ndjodo clarified that the Church did not pay any money to secure the group’s freedom.

Expressing deep gratitude, the archbishop extended heartfelt thanks to all who offered prayers and support during the tense days following the kidnapping. Though physically weakened, Fr. Mbaibarem’s safe return has brought a moment of relief to a nation grappling with rising insecurity and armed violence in its northern regions.