Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Brigade, operating under Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have arrested a notorious bandit leader linked to multiple cases of kidnapping and armed robbery along the Benue–Taraba axis.
The arrest was carried out on December 21, 2025, by troops of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Wukari during an intelligence-driven operation at Vaase Community in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, according to a statement issued by the Brigade on Monday.
The suspect, identified as Fidelis Gayama, was described as a high-value target who had been on the watchlist of security agencies for a considerable period.
Preliminary investigations, disclosed by the Brigade through its Acting Spokesman, Lt. Umar Muhammad, revealed that Gayama is closely associated with Aka Dogo, a wanted leader of an armed criminal group.
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The Army said he is believed to be the ringleader of a network responsible for terrorising commuters and residents along the Kente–Wukari Road and other border communities between Benue and Taraba states.
Security sources further revealed that personnel of the Nigeria Police Force at the Vaase Outpost confirmed the suspect as one of those declared wanted by the Beji Police Division in Ukum Local Government Area.
The Army stated that the suspect is currently in military custody and will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and prosecution in accordance with the law.
Commending the troops for their professionalism and operational precision, the Commander of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 OPWS, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, described the arrest as a significant blow to criminal networks operating in the area.
He reaffirmed the Brigade’s commitment to sustaining offensive operations to protect lives and property, while urging members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.
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