Wanted kidnap kingpin caught while negotiating N20m ransom in Taraba
A wanted kidnap kingpin identified as Umar Geyi Musa has been arrested at Geyi Jandei-Kulamu in Wukari in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State while negotiating N20 million ransom for release of one Alhaji Jano, his victim.
Musa was arrested by troops of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS),
The Brigade’s Public Relations Officer, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, said in a statement that the arrest is part of successful operations recorded under the newly launched OPERATION ZAFIN WUTA.
According to the statement, Musa was arrested based on credible intelligence on his activities.
He said the suspect has been on the wanted list of security agencies as a key member of a kidnapping syndicate that terrorizing several communities within the area.
Mohammad said preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect is linked to the kidnapping of Alhaji Jano, a Fulani resident of the Jandei-Kulala general area, who was abducted on November 13, 2025, and remains in captivity.
He added that Musa 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 suspect is currently in custody undergoing further interrogation to determine the exact location of the victim and facilitate his safe rescue.
While commending the troops for their proactive action, the Commander 6 Brigade, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, reaffirmed that the Brigade remains fully committed to dismantling criminal networks, rescuing victims, and restoring peace and security across Taraba State.
Uwa urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to support security agencies with timely and credible information.
