Troops of 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have arrested a suspected kidnapping kingpin, marking a major success in the ongoing Operation Zafin Wuta to restore security in Southern Taraba.
On 23 November 2025, Alhaji Abubakar Bawa was apprehended while attempting to flee Wukari Local Government Area.
The arrest came just a day after 6 Brigade troops captured Umar Musa, another notorious kidnapping mastermind operating in the region.
Preliminary investigations indicate that both men are linked to a larger criminal syndicate responsible for multiple kidnappings, violent attacks, and coordinated criminal activities across Southern Taraba.
In a statement, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade,
Lieutenant Umar Muhammad confirmed the suspect’s capture and highlighted the operation as part of a sustained effort to dismantle criminal networks terrorising local communities.
Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of 6 Brigade/Sector 3 OPWS, commended the troops for their professionalism and operational precision, describing Bawa’s arrest as “a clear indication that Operation Zafin Wuta is achieving its objective of dismantling criminal syndicates and restoring security to affected communities.”
He reiterated that the Brigade remains committed to maintaining aggressive clearance operations, stressing that “no criminal element will be allowed to escape justice as long as these operations continue at the current momentum.”
The Nigerian Army emphasised that this success strengthens its resolve to eliminate criminal threats in Southern Taraba and ensure lasting peace.
Troops under 6 Brigade continue to investigate Bawa’s network while remaining vigilant in ongoing operations.
The Army also urged residents to provide credible information to support security efforts in the region.
The suspect is currently in custody and undergoing further interrogation.
Linus Aleke
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