Troops Capture Notorious Bandits Kingpin in Taraba
Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have arrested a suspected high-profile bandit believed to be a key associate of the notorious criminal gang led by the wanted kingpin, Akiki Utivi, popularly known as “Full Fire.”
The suspect, identified as Mr. Saawuan Wuaiyolna, 35, of Tiv extraction, was apprehended on Wednesday at Takum Junction in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State, following a swift operation by troops of the Forward Operating Base (FOB), Wukari.
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Military sources revealed that the arrest was facilitated by credible intelligence on Wuaiyolna’s movements. He was allegedly tasked with monitoring troops’ activities in Wukari to aid the gang’s planned attacks and kidnappings in the region.
According to the source, the suspect, who hails from Atereyange in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, was in possession of a motorcycle, which he claimed was brought to Wukari for sale.
Security operatives described the arrest as a significant breakthrough in the ongoing offensive against the “Full Fire” syndicate, which has long terrorised communities across parts of Taraba and Benue States.
The military further assured that while the security situation in the area remains calm but unpredictable, troops’ morale and operational efficiency are high, with continued efforts underway to dismantle the gang’s network and restore lasting peace in the affected communities.
By PRNigeria