Troops Arrest Wanted Kidnapper Negotiating N20m Ransom in Taraba
Troops of the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army, have arrested a suspected kidnapper in the Wukari Local Government Area (LGA) of Taraba State while he was negotiating a ransom payment of N20 million.
The suspect, identified as Umar Musa Geyi, was apprehended on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the Jandei–Kulamu area during a clear-out operation by troops under Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) and Operation Zafin Wuta.
In a statement released on Sunday, Lieutenant Umar Mohammed, the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 6 Brigade, confirmed the arrest. He disclosed that Geyi had been on the wanted list of security agencies and is believed to be a key member of a kidnapping syndicate terrorizing communities in the Wukari axis.
According to preliminary investigations, the suspect is linked to the abduction of Alhaji Jano, a Fulani resident of Jandei–Kulala, who was kidnapped on November 13, 2025. The victim reportedly remains in captivity.
“Mr. Geyi was arrested after troops intercepted him during a phone conversation in which he confirmed the victim was still being held and demanded a ransom of ₦20 million for his release,” the statement read.
The army spokesperson added that the suspect is currently in custody and undergoing interrogation to help locate the victim and facilitate a safe rescue.
Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, the Commander of the 6 Brigade, commended the troops for their professionalism and proactive action. He reaffirmed the brigade’s commitment to dismantling criminal networks and restoring peace and security across Taraba State.
The commander also urged the public to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to aid their operations.
