Metro
Nigerian Army arrests notorious kidnap kingpin in Taraba
Troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3, under Operation Whirl Stroke, have arrested a suspected notorious kidnap kingpin in Southern Taraba.
The operation, carried out on November 23, 2025, led to the apprehension of Alhaji Abubakar Bawa in Wukari Local Government Area as he attempted to flee.
Bawa is reportedly linked to Umar Musa, another notorious kidnapper apprehended by 6 Brigade troops just a day earlier, on November 22, 2025.
Preliminary investigations suggest that both suspects are part of a wider criminal syndicate responsible for multiple kidnappings, violent attacks, and other coordinated criminal activities across the region.
The arrests are part of Operation Zafin Wuta, a targeted clearance initiative launched by the Nigerian Army to combat criminal elements terrorising communities in Southern Taraba.
The operation involves intelligence-led patrols, coordination with local security networks, and rapid deployment of troops to hotspots.
Since its launch, the operation has successfully disrupted several kidnapping cells and recovered victims held for ransom.
Commenting on the latest arrest, Commander of 6 Brigade/Sector 3 OPWS, Brigadier General Kingsley Uwa, lauded the troops for their professionalism and operational precision.
He said, “The arrest of Bawa is a clear indication that Operation Zafin Wuta is achieving its intended objective of dismantling criminal syndicates and restoring security to affected communities.”
Uwa added that the military remains committed to eliminating criminal threats in the area, noting, “No criminal element will be allowed to escape justice as long as these operations continue at the current momentum.”
Residents of Wukari and surrounding areas have reportedly expressed relief following the arrests, noting that kidnappings and violent attacks have created fear and disrupted daily life.
Local authorities have also pledged to support the military in its ongoing operations by providing intelligence and coordinating community vigilance.
The Nigerian Army urged residents to remain vigilant and assist security agencies with credible information to aid ongoing efforts against criminal networks.
The suspect is currently in custody and undergoing further interrogation, as authorities work to map the full extent of the criminal syndicate and identify other potential collaborators.
Follow Us on Google Discover
2027: Hamzat visits MFM GO Olukoya with running mate in Lagos(Photos)
BREAKING: Tragedy averted as Aircraft makes emergency landing in Abuja after door opens mid-air
Outrage as suspected cultists unveil renovated police post in Rivers
2027: ‘It will take a miracle to stop Tinubu if opposition is divided’ – Dan Ulasi
Kaduna couple, six-month-old child regain freedom after days in kidnappers den
Elon Musk unveils Tesla’s ‘flying’ car in stunning demonstration
Gunmen storm Plateau, kill traditional ruler at residence
Osun Police arrest three suspects over murder, recover weapons
Tension as unknown gunmen kidnap Catholic priest in Benue
2027: Tinubu to miss rallies in over 20 States as APC releases campaign timetable
‘What kind of humility is that?’ – Wike questions Obi over frequent IDP camp visits
Drug allegations: ‘Prove your innocence, allow FBI release records’ – US firm challenges Tinubu
2027: ‘Atiku, Obi, Duke, Makinde are not threats to Tinubu’, says APC
Panic in Rivers community as pipeline explosion injures 20, razes over 50 houses
‘I love Islam, I’ve sent people to Mecca to pray for me, Nigeria for 25 years’ – Akpabio
Popular gospel singer Toluwanisings is dead
‘If you attempt suicide, make sure you die’ — Akpabio sparks outrage over suicide bill
2027: Atiku, Obi, Makinde, Adebayo, Duke hold talks with six opposition parties
2027: ‘I won’t go to every state with you’ — Tinubu tells APC campaign team
BREAKING: EFCC reopens investigation into Atiku following petition by ex-Lawmaker
Ex-Senator Bello Mandiya’s body found in Abuja home three days after he slipped, hit his head in the bathroom
I will make life affordable, provide better security if elected – Atiku urges Nigerians to get their PVCs, vote out Tinubu
‘You Betrayed Osun People’ — Adeleke, Davido face backlash over support for Tinubu
How to check if your phone is NCC-approved to avoid network blockage
‘Nobody can destabilise Tinubu through N’Assembly’, Akpabio declares support for 2027 re-election
JUST IN: Finnish Appeal Court reduces Simon Ekpa’s jail term to four years, upholds terrorism conviction
2027 election: Wike acts in secret, brags in public – Rufai Oseni
Zamfara govt set to empower 36,176 residents with Dangote shares
Nigeria wins three-year seat on UN human rights council with 172 votes
