Army Arrests Suspected Kidnap Kingpin in Taraba

Army Arrests Suspected Kidnap Kingpin in Taraba

Reported By Sele Media Africa |Ihuoma Amarachi

TARABA — Troops of the Nigerian Army, under Operation Zafin Wuta, have arrested a notorious kidnap kingpin believed to be behind a series of abductions in Taraba State. The operation, conducted over the weekend, also led to the dismantling of a major criminal syndicate in the area.The arrest was confirmed by the Defence Headquarters in a statement released on Sunday, noting that the suspect had been on the military’s wanted list for months due to his alleged involvement in high-profile kidnappings, armed robbery, and gun-running.

Military Statement

According to the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, the troops carried out a precise raid based on credible intelligence in Gassol Local Government Area, where the suspect was apprehended without resistance. “The troops acted on actionable intelligence and successfully captured the key suspect, believed to be the leader of a kidnap network operating across Taraba and neighbouring states,”Buba stated.

Weapons Recovered

The military also recovered weapons, communication gadgets, and logistics materials used by the gang to coordinate operations and evade security forces.“This marks a major blow to criminal elements disturbing the peace in the North-East,” the statement added.

Community Reaction

Local residents and leaders have applauded the military for the successful operation, noting that the suspect’s network had terrorised farming communities and disrupted economic activities in the area.

Broader Context

Operation Zafin Wuta, launched in 2023, is part of the military’s coordinated anti-banditry and counterterrorism strategy across the North-East and North-Central regions. It aims to restore peace in areas plagued by banditry, kidnapping, and communal violence.

What to Watch

– Further interrogation of the suspect may lead to the discovery of accomplices and safe houses.

– Ongoing military operations may intensify in other hotspots.

– Possible prosecution under Nigeria’s terrorism and anti-kidnapping laws.

Citations:

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/11/troops-nab-notorious-kidnap-kingpin-in-taraba/)https://www.thecable.ng/operation-zafin-wuta-army-arrests-kidnap-kingpin-in-taraba/)https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/667791-army-arrests-kidnap-kingpin-taraba.html)

About The Author

Ihuoma Amarachi Grace

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Ihuoma Amarachi Grace is a journalist with Sele Media Africa, committed to telling authentic African stories with depth and creativity. A Christian and a student of English and Literary Studies, she blends her love for writing with the art of spoken word to inspire and inform. Her voice adds a thoughtful and artistic dimension to Sele Media’s mission of amplifying unheard voices across the continent.

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