By Erewunmi Peace

Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Brigade, operating under Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke, have successfully arrested a notorious bandit leader identified as Fidelis Gayama, who has been linked to a series of kidnappings and armed robberies across communities in Benue and Taraba States.

The arrest took place on 21 December 2025 during a precision, intelligence-led operation at Vaase Community in Ukum Local Government Area, Benue State.

According to a statement issued by the Army’s Acting Assistant Director of Public Relations for the 6 Brigade, Lieutenant Muhammad Umar, Gayama was described as a “high-value suspect” who had long been sought by security agencies for his alleged involvement in terrorising travellers and residents along the Kente–Wukari road and adjoining border areas between Benue and Taraba.

Preliminary investigations indicate that Gayama had close links to another wanted armed group leader known as Aka Dogo and was believed to be the ringleader of a criminal network behind multiple abductions, armed robberies, and other violent crimes in the region.

Local police officers at the Vaase Police Outpost also confirmed that Gayama was among individuals previously 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 appropriate authorities for further investigation and prosecution under Nigerian law.

Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of the 6 Brigade/Sector 3 OPWS, described the operation as “a significant blow to criminal networks operating in the area” and reaffirmed the military’s commitment to protecting lives and property in the region.

Security agencies have called on members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to support ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal elements and improve safety in vulnerable communities.