Army Arrests Notorious Kidnap Kingpin in Taraba Operation
Notorious kidnap suspect arrested in Taraba

Military Operation Nets Wanted Kidnap Suspect in Taraba

Troops from the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army, have successfully apprehended a notorious kidnap suspect during a targeted operation in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State. The arrest represents a significant breakthrough in the ongoing fight against kidnapping syndicates operating in the region.

Intelligence-Led Operation Yields Results

According to an official statement released on Sunday by Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, the arrest was conducted under Operation Zafin Wuta as part of Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS).

The military operation, which took place on November 22, 2025, was executed based on credible intelligence that led troops to Jandei-Kulamu in Wukari. There, they captured Umar Mus Geyi, a individual who has long featured on security watchlists as a key member of a dangerous kidnapping syndicate.

Connection to Recent Abduction and Ransom Demand

Preliminary investigations conducted by security forces have revealed disturbing details about Geyi's criminal activities. The army confirmed that the suspect is directly linked to the November 13, 2025 kidnapping of Alhaji Jano, a Fulani resident of the Jandei-Kulala area who remains in captivity.

In a dramatic turn of events, soldiers intercepted Geyi during a telephone conversation where he explicitly confirmed that the victim was still being held captive. During this intercepted communication, the suspect demanded a hefty ransom of N20 million for the victim's release.

The suspect is currently being held in military custody as security agencies intensify efforts to locate the victim and ensure his safe return to his family. Operations are ongoing to determine the exact location where Alhaji Jano is being held.

Military Leadership Commends Troops

Brigadier General Kingsley C. Uwa, Commander of the 6 Brigade, praised the troops for their swift and coordinated response that led to the successful arrest. The commander reaffirmed the Brigade's unwavering commitment to dismantling criminal networks and restoring lasting peace across Taraba State.

General Uwa also urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing security agencies with timely and credible information to help combat criminal elements in their communities. This collaborative approach between security forces and civilians has proven essential in the fight against kidnapping and other security challenges in the region.