In a significant blow to criminal networks operating along the border of Benue and Taraba states, the Nigerian Army’s 6 Brigade has captured a prominent bandit figure.
The operation, conducted by Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), successfully apprehended a suspect tied to numerous violent crimes in the region.
The mission took place on the 21st of December 2025, led by troops from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Wukari. Acting on precise intelligence, the soldiers moved into the Vaase Community, located in the Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, to secure the target.
The individual in custody has been identified as Fidelis Gayama, a man long sought by law enforcement for his alleged role in kidnapping and highway robbery.
According to the official statement from the Brigade:
“According to preliminary investigations, Gayama is closely associated with Aka Dogo, a wanted leader of an armed criminal group. He is believed to be the mastermind behind a network that has terrorised commuters and residents along the Kente–Wukari Road and other border communities between Benue and Taraba states”
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Further verification from the Nigeria Police Force at the Vaase Outpost confirmed that Gayama was already on the wanted list of the Beji Police Division.
The Acting Spokesperson for the Brigade, Lt. Umar Muhammad, noted that the suspect remains in military custody for the time being. He will eventually be transferred to the relevant civil authorities for formal prosecution.
Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of 6 Brigade and Sector 3 OPWS, praised the tactical precision of his troops. He emphasized that this arrest disrupts the operational flow of local bandits and reaffirmed the military’s resolve to continue offensive maneuvers until the region is secure. He also called upon the local population to remain vigilant and support security forces with actionable information.