Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have arrested a high-profile suspected bandit linked to the notorious gang led by the wanted criminal, Akiki Utivi, also known as “Full Fire.”

Zagazola reports that the suspect, identified as Mr. Saawuan Wuaiyolna, 35, of Tiv extraction, was arrested on Wednesday at Takum Junction in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State.

The source said the arrest was made by troops of the Forward Operating Base (FOB), Wukari, following credible intelligence on the suspect’s movement.

“Wuaiyolna, who hails from Atereyange in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, was nabbed while allegedly monitoring troops’ activities in Wukari to facilitate planned attacks and kidnappings by the gang.

“He was also found with a motorcycle, which he claimed he brought to sell in Wukari,” the source said.

The military described the arrest as a major breakthrough against the “Full Fire” syndicate, which has been terrorising communities across parts of Taraba and Benue States.

It added that the general security situation in the area of responsibility remains calm but unpredictable, while assuring that troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remain high. (Zagazola, but headline rejigged).