Troops nab wanted bandit kingpin in Benue

Troops of Forward Operating Base (FOB) Wukari in Taraba State, under the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have  arrested a notorious bandit leader reportedly responsible for multiple kidnapping and armed robbery incidents along the Benue–Taraba axis.

The arrest was carried out on 21 December, 2025 during a precision, intelligence driven operation at Vaase Community, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.

The Assistant Director Army Public Relations officer, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, said in Jalingo that the troops, during the operation, arrested Fidelis Gayama, a high-valued suspect who had been on the wanted lists of security agencies in Taraba and Benue states axis.

He stated that 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 that terrorised travellers and communities along the Kente-Wukari Road and adjoining border areas between Benue and Taraba states.

The Army spokesperson stated further that the suspect was in the military custody and would be handed over to the appropriate authority for comprehensive investigation and prosecution, in line with extant laws.

Commending the troops for their professionalism, discipline and operational precision, the Commander 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 area.

He reaffirmed the Brigade’s unwavering commitment to sustaining offensive operations and ensuring the safety of lives and property.

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