Army Arrests Notorious Bandit Leader in Benue–Taraba Axis Operation
Troops of the Nigerian Army under the 6 Brigade / Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have recorded a major operational success with the arrest of a notorious bandit leader linked to a string of kidnappings and armed robbery incidents along the Benue–Taraba axis.
The suspect, identified as Fidelis Gayama, was arrested on 21 December 2025 during a precision, intelligence-driven operation conducted by troops of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Wukari at Vaase Community in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
According to the Army, Gayama is a high-value suspect who has been on the radar of security agencies for his alleged role in terrorising communities and travellers along the Kente–Wukari Road and adjoining border areas between Benue and Taraba states.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect is closely linked to Aka Dogo, a wanted armed group leader, and is believed to be the ringleader of a criminal network responsible for multiple cases of kidnapping and armed robbery in the area.
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Further checks by personnel of the Nigeria Police Force at the Vaase Outpost confirmed that Gayama is among individuals declared wanted by the Beji Police Division in Ukum Local Government Area.
The suspect is currently being held in military custody and is expected to be handed over to the appropriate authorities for comprehensive investigation and prosecution in line with existing laws.
Commending the troops for their professionalism and operational precision, the Commander of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army / Sector 3 OPWS, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, described the arrest as a significant blow to criminal networks operating within the region.
He reaffirmed the Brigade’s commitment to sustaining aggressive operations aimed at dismantling banditry and other forms of criminality, while ensuring the safety of lives and property across the operational area.
Brigadier General Uwa also urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to enhance ongoing security efforts.
The Nigerian Army said the latest arrest underscores its resolve to deny criminal elements freedom of action and restore lasting peace in Benue, Taraba, and neighbouring states.
By PRNigeria
