In a significant intelligence-driven operation, troops of the Nigerian Army have apprehended a notorious bandit leader responsible for a reign of terror along the volatile border between Benue and Taraba states.
High-Value Target Captured in Ukum
The arrest was executed on December 21, 2025, by soldiers from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Wukari. The operation, conducted under Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), targeted the Vaase Community in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
The 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, in a statement issued on Monday, identified the suspect as Fidelis Gayama. He was described as a high-value target who had been on the watchlists of various security agencies for some time.
Link to Wanted Criminal Kingpin
Preliminary investigations led by the Brigade's acting spokesman, Lieutenant Unar Muhammad, revealed that Gayama is closely associated with Aka Dogo, a wanted leader of an armed criminal group.
The army stated that Gayama is believed to be the ringleader of a network responsible for terrorizing commuters and residents along the Kente–Wukari Road and other border communities. His activities included multiple cases of kidnapping and armed robbery.
Security sources confirmed that personnel at the Nigeria Police Force's Vaase Outpost verified the suspect was among those declared wanted by the Beji Police Division in Ukum LGA.
Military Commitment and Festive Security
The suspect is currently in military custody and will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for prosecution. The Commander of 6 Brigade and Sector 3 OPWS, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, commended the troops for their professionalism. He described the arrest as a major blow to criminal networks and reaffirmed the commitment to protecting lives and property.
In related security news, the Defence Headquarters has assured Nigerians of robust measures to prevent attacks during the Christmas and New Year festivities. The Director of Defence Information, Major-General Michael Onoja, stated that operations have been intensified in vulnerable areas with additional troop deployments and heightened aerial surveillance.
This security boost coincides with the recent induction of 4,687 new recruits into the Armed Forces. The Nigerian Army welcomed 3,391 regular recruits, while the Air Force graduated 1,296 airmen and airwomen.
