By Reportcircle-Wukari, Taraba
In a dramatic breakthrough against terror, troops of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke have captured a notorious suspected terrorist linked to the deadly “Full Fire” gang, tightening the noose on one of the region’s most feared criminal networks.
The suspect, 35-year-old Saawuan Wuaiyolna, was intercepted on 18 September 2025 at Takum Junction, Wukari Local Government Area, after troops acting on credible intelligence swiftly tracked his movements.
He was arrested while attempting to maneuver on a motorcycle.
Military sources confirmed that Wuaiyolna, a native of Ateryange community in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, is a high-profile member of the bandit gang loyal to wanted kingpin Akiki Utivi, notoriously known as “Full Fire.”
Investigations revealed that he had infiltrated Wukari to spy on troop deployments and aid coordinated attacks on civilians.
The arrest delivers a crushing blow to the gang’s operations and underscores the resolve of Operation LAFIYA NAKOWA to dismantle terror cells across Taraba and its environs.
Commander of 6 Brigade, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, hailed the troops for their precision and gallantry, stressing the Army’s commitment to denying terrorists and bandits freedom of action.
He called on residents to sustain their support by providing timely intelligence that could foil further attacks.
“This success is proof that with community cooperation and decisive action, terrorists and criminals have no hiding place,” Uwa said.
With Wuaiyolna now in custody, security analysts say the Army has landed a strategic advantage in dismantling the “Full Fire” syndicate, long feared for its coordinated raids and brutality in Benue and Taraba.
