Iliyasu Abdullahi Bah
In a significant intelligence driven operation, troops of the Nigerian military Operation Whirl Stroke OPW apprehended a high profile suspected bandit, dealing a critical blow to a notorious criminal network terrorizing the border regions of Taraba and Benue states.
The suspect, identified as Saawuan Wuaiyolna is described as a key figure linked to the infamous gang led by the wanted criminal kingpin, Akiki Utivi, alias “Full Fire.”
The arrest was first disclosed to the public by prominent counter-insurgency expert and security analyst, Zagazola Makama, in a detailed post on his official X handle on Friday.
According to the detailed report, the arrest was executed on Wednesday by a specialized unit from the Forward Operating Base FOB in Wukari. The operation was launched following a tip-off from credible intelligence sources regarding Wuaiyolna movement and activities.
The troops successfully intercepted and apprehended the suspect at the Takum Junction, a strategic and bustling transit point within the Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State.
Wuaiyolna, who hails from Atereyange in the Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, was not merely a foot soldier. Intelligence reports indicate he was acting as an intelligence operative for the “Full Fire” syndicate.
His primary mission in Wukari was allegedly to monitor and gather information on troops movements, patrol patterns, and deployment strategies. This intelligence was intended to aid the gang in planning precise and devastating attacks, kidnappings, and ambushes against both security forces and civilians in the area.
At the time of his arrest, he was found in possession of a motorcycle. While he claimed to have brought it to Wukari for sale, security analysts believe the vehicle was likely intended for use in the gang logistical operations or quick getaways.
The military has described the arrest as a major breakthrough in the ongoing campaign to dismantle the “Full Fire” criminal network. The syndicate has been responsible for a wave of violence, including kidnappings for ransom, armed robberies, and brutal attacks on rural communities spanning the Taraba and Benue state borders.
The apprehension of an individual in such a sensitive intelligence gathering role is expected to severely disrupt the gang’s operational planning and temporarily degrade its ability to launch coordinated attacks.
While the security situation in the area is reported to be calm but unpredictable, military authorities have assured the public that troops morale and operational efficiency remain high. Operations are ongoing to locate other members of the gang, including its leader, Akiki Utivi “Full Fire,” and restore lasting peace to the region.