Troops of the forward operating base in Wukari, under the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, have arrested a bandit leader in the Ukum LGA of Benue.

A statement on Monday described the arrest as a major operational breakthrough for the army. 

The arrest of the notorious bandit leader responsible for multiple kidnapping and armed robbery incidents along the Benue-Taraba axis is a major breakthrough in our operations.

“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,” the army said.

It said preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect is closely linked to Aka Dogo, a wanted armed group leader.

“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,” said the statement.

Kingsley Uwa, commander of 6 Brigade, commended the troops for their professionalism, discipline, and operational precision. He described the arrest as a significant blow to criminal networks operating within the area.

Mr Uwa reaffirmed the brigade’s unwavering commitment to sustaining offensive operations and ensuring the safety of lives and property.

The commander further called on members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies in support of ongoing security efforts.

(NAN)