Troops of Forward Operating Base (FOB) Wukari, under the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have arrested a notorious bandit leader responsible for multiple kidnappings and armed robberies along the Benue–Taraba axis.
The arrest of Fidelis Gayama, described as a “high-value” suspect, took place on December 21 in Vaase Community, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State during a precision, intelligence-driven operation.
Lieutenant Muhammad Umar, spokesperson for the 6 Brigade, said preliminary investigations revealed that Gayama is closely linked to Dogo, another wanted armed group leader. He is believed to be the ringleader of a criminal network that has terrorised travellers and communities along Kente–Wukari Road and neighbouring border areas.
Further verification by personnel of the Nigeria Police Force at Vaase Outpost confirmed that Gayama was among individuals declared wanted by the Beji Police Division, Ukum Local Government Area.
“The suspect is currently in military custody and will be handed over to the appropriate authority for comprehensive investigation and prosecution in line with extant laws,” Umar stated.
Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of 6 Brigade/Sector 3 OPWS, commended the troops for their professionalism and operational precision, describing the arrest as a significant blow to criminal networks in the region. He reaffirmed the Brigade’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property and urged the public to continue providing credible information to security agencies.
