Muhammad Basheer HotoroMakurdi — Troops of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Wukari, operating under the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army and Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have arrested a notorious bandit leader, Fidelis Gayama, linked to several cases of kidnapping and armed robbery along the Benue–Taraba axis.
The Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, disclosed that the arrest followed a precision, intelligence-driven operation carried out on December 21, 2025, at Vaase community in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
He described the suspect as a “high-value target” who had been on the watchlist of security agencies for a long period.
According to Lieutenant Muhammad, preliminary investigations revealed that Gayama is closely associated with Aka Dogo, a wanted armed group leader, and is believed to be the ringleader of a criminal network responsible for terrorising travellers and local communities along the Kente–Wukari Road and other border areas between Benue and Taraba states.
He added that personnel of the Nigeria Police Force at the Vaase Outpost confirmed that the suspect is among those declared wanted by the Beji Police Division in Ukum LGA.
“The suspect is currently in military custody and will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for thorough investigation and prosecution in accordance with extant laws,” he said.
Commending the troops for their professionalism and operational efficiency, the Commander of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 OPWS, Brigadier General Kingsley Uwa, described the arrest as a major setback for criminal elements operating in the area.
“This arrest represents a significant blow to criminal networks within our area of responsibility. We remain resolute in sustaining offensive operations to ensure the safety of lives and property,” Brigadier General Uwa stated.
He also urged residents to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information to enhance ongoing security operations.
