“‘No More Running!’ Army Declares Total War on Criminal Gangs as Operation Zafin Wuta Sweeps Through Takum and Wukari”
By Paul Ebi
In a renewed push to stabilise Southern Taraba and protect vulnerable communities, Headquarters 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) has launched a major peace-restoration initiative codenamed OPERATION ZAFIN WUTA. The special operation, which began on 22 November 2025, integrates both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to tackle insecurity across Takum and Wukari Local Government Areas.
The operation kicked off with a blend of humanitarian outreach, operational activities, and strategic engagements aimed at strengthening community trust and enhancing security responses.
Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander 6 Brigade, led a high-level team—including the Executive Secretary of the Taraba State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Dr. Echuseh Audu, and Chairman of Takum LGA, Mr. Benjamin Bako—to several Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) locations in Takum. These included 93 Battalion Mammy Market, Kufai-Amadu, and Chanchanji, where displaced families received palliatives and essential relief materials.
Addressing the IDPs, Brig Gen Uwa sympathised with them over the criminal attacks that forced them out of their ancestral communities. He assured them of the Army’s renewed determination to “eliminate all criminal elements and restore lasting security,” while urging residents to give timely and credible information to aid ongoing operations.
Community leaders welcomed the intervention, expressing gratitude to the Nigerian Army, SEMA, and the Taraba State Government. They appealed for sustained efforts to ensure their safe and dignified return home.
As part of the day’s activities, 6 Brigade troops conducted a Show of Force across Takum town, Kufai-Amadu, Chanchanji, and parts of Wukari—signaling the Army’s readiness to dominate the security space and deter criminal elements.
Brig Gen Uwa later paid a courtesy visit to the Aku Uka of Wukari, His Royal Majesty Manu Ishaku Ada Ali, accompanied by SEMA officials. He briefed the revered monarch on the multidimensional approach of Operation Zafin Wuta and sought royal support in mobilising credible intelligence.
The Aku Uka lauded the Commander for initiating the operation, noting that it would significantly contribute to restoring peace in Wukari and neighbouring communities. He pledged full cooperation, especially in galvanising community backing for the military’s efforts.
Across Takum and Wukari, the activities under Operation Zafin Wuta highlight the Nigerian Army’s commitment—alongside its partners—to safeguarding communities, supporting displaced families, and fostering sustainable peace. The operation continues to make steady progress, combining operational strength with humanitarian engagement for greater impact.
UMAR MUHAMMADLieutenantActing Assistant Director, Army Public Relations6 Brigade Nigerian Army22 November 2025
