Table of Contents
- Arrest of Notorious Bandit Leader
- Details of the Arrest
- Profile of the Suspect
- Security Confirmation
- Military Custody and Next Steps
- Commendation of Troops
- Appeal to the Public
The troops of the Nigerian Army's 6 Brigade, operating under Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have apprehended a notorious bandit leader linked to numerous cases of kidnapping and armed robbery along the Benue–Taraba route.
The arrest, as reported in a statement issued by the Brigade on Monday, took place on December 21, 2025, by personnel from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Wukari during an intelligence-driven operation in the Vaase Community, located in the Ukum local government area of Benue State.
The suspect, identified as Fidelis Gayama, is regarded as a high-value target who has been on the radar of security agencies.
“Preliminary investigations suggest that Gayama has close ties with Aka Dogo, a wanted leader of an armed criminal organization.
He is believed to be the architect behind a network that has instilled fear in commuters and residents along the Kente–Wukari Road and other border communities between Benue and Taraba states,” the statement indicated.
Security sources further revealed that personnel from the Nigeria Police Force at the Vaase Outpost confirmed the suspect as one of those declared wanted by the Beji Police Division in the Ukum Local Government Area.
Signed by the Brigade's Acting spokesperson, Lt. Umar Muhammad, the statement noted 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 the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 OPWS, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, characterized the arrest as a significant setback for criminal networks operating in the region.
He reiterated the Brigade’s dedication to continuing offensive operations to protect lives and property, while also encouraging the public to keep providing timely and credible information to security agencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason for the arrest of Fidelis Gayama?
Fidelis Gayama was arrested due to his involvement in multiple cases of kidnapping and armed robbery along the Benue–Taraba axis, where he is believed to have terrorized commuters and residents.
What will happen to Fidelis Gayama now that he is in custody?
He is currently in military custody and is expected to be transferred to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and prosecution in line with the law.
How can the public assist security agencies?
The public can assist by providing timely and credible information to security agencies to help in their operations against criminal activities.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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