Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Brigade, operating under Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have arrested another suspected kidnap kingpin, less than 24 hours after a similar high-profile capture in Southern Taraba.
The suspect, identified as Alhaji Abubakar Bawa, was apprehended on 23 November 2025 during Operation Zafin Wuta, a clearance mission targeting criminal networks across the region. His arrest was confirmed in a statement released Monday by the Brigade’s Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Lt. Umar Muhammad.
According to military sources, Bawa was intercepted while attempting to flee Wukari Local Government Area. Security personnel described him as a close associate of Umar Musa, another alleged kidnap mastermind arrested on 22 November. The Army said preliminary findings suggest the pair are connected to a wider criminal syndicate responsible for multiple kidnappings, violent attacks, and organized crimes within Southern Taraba and surrounding areas.
Commander of the 6 Brigade, Brigadier General Kingsley C. Uwa, praised the operation, noting that the swift arrests highlight the effectiveness of ongoing security efforts. He said Operation Zafin Wuta continues to yield significant results in disrupting criminal activities and restoring stability to affected communities.
General Uwa reiterated the Army’s determination to maintain pressure on criminal groups, emphasizing that “no criminal will evade justice.” He added that troops remain on heightened alert as investigations into Bawa’s network progress.
The Brigade urged residents to stay vigilant and provide credible information that could assist ongoing operations and enhance regional security.