The Nigerian Army has announced the arrest of another major kidnap kingpin in southern Taraba, following a coordinated operation by troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, OPWS.
In a statement issued Monday night, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, revealed that the suspect, identified as Alhaji Abubakar Bawa, was captured on November 23, 2025, while attempting to flee Wukari Local Government Area.
Bawa is believed to be a close associate of Umar Musa, another notorious kidnapping mastermind arrested by the same troops on November 22, 2025. Preliminary investigations indicate strong connections between the two men and a broader criminal network responsible for numerous kidnappings, violent attacks, and coordinated crimes across southern Taraba.
Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of 6 Brigade/Sector 3 OPWS, praised the troops for their professionalism and operational efficiency. He said Bawa’s arrest demonstrates the growing impact of Operation Zafin Wuta, aimed at dismantling criminal syndicates and restoring stability to affected communities.
He emphasized that troops will sustain aggressive clearance operations, assuring that no criminal element will evade justice as long as the current tempo is maintained.
The Army also urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing credible intelligence to support ongoing security efforts.
Bawa is currently in custody undergoing further interrogation.