Troops of the Forward Operating Base Wukari, operating under the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke, have apprehended a suspected bandit kingpin in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
The arrest was confirmed in a statement issued on Monday by Lt. Umar Muhammad, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the Brigade, who described the operation as a significant success for the military.
According to the statement, the suspect has been linked to several cases of kidnapping and armed robbery along the Benue–Taraba corridor, making his capture a major boost to ongoing security operations in the region.
“The arrest was carried out on December 22, 2025, during a precision, intelligence-driven operation at Vaase Community, Ukum LGA of Benue State.
“The operation resulted in the arrest of Fidelis Gayama, a high-value suspect long sought by security agencies.”
Lt. Muhammad added that initial investigations indicate the suspect has close ties to Aka Dogo, a notorious armed group leader currently wanted by security agencies.
“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”.
Reacting to the development, the Commander of 6 Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Kingsley Uwa, praised the troops for their professionalism, discipline and accuracy in carrying out the operation.
He noted that the arrest represents a serious setback for criminal elements operating in the area and reiterated the Brigade’s resolve to maintain sustained offensive actions to protect lives and property.
The Brigade Commander also urged residents to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and reliable information to aid ongoing operations.
