By Peter Omopo
Troops of the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army have arrested a notorious bandit leader linked to a series of kidnappings and armed robberies in communities across Benue and Taraba states.
The arrest was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday by Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade. According to the statement, the operation was conducted by troops attached to the Forward Operating Base, Wukari, under Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke.
The suspect, identified as Fidelis Gayama, was apprehended on December 21, 2025, during a precision, intelligence-led operation at Vaase Community in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State. He had reportedly been on the wanted list of security agencies and had evaded arrest for a prolonged period.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Gayama is closely linked to Aka Dogo, a wanted armed group leader, and is believed to be the ringleader of a criminal network that has terrorised travellers and residents along the Kente–Wukari Road and surrounding border areas between Benue and Taraba states.
Further checks by personnel of the Nigeria Police Force at the Vaase Outpost confirmed that the suspect is among individuals declared wanted by the Beji Police Division in Ukum Local Government Area.
The Army said the suspect is currently in military custody and will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and prosecution in line with extant laws.
Commending the troops for their professionalism, discipline and operational precision, the Commander of 6 Brigade, 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 ensure the safety of lives and property, while urging members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to support ongoing security efforts.
