Troops from the Forward Operating Base Wukari, operating under the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army and Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke, have arrested Fidelis Gayama, also known as Fidelis Guyama, a notorious bandit leader linked to a series of kidnappings and armed robberies across Nigeria’s North Central region.
The arrest was carried out on December 21, 2025, during a precision intelligence led operation in Vaase community, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, following sustained surveillance and intelligence gathering by security agencies.
Gayama, described by security sources as a high value target, had been on the wanted list of security agencies in Benue and Taraba States for a prolonged period. He is believed to be a key mastermind behind criminal activities that have terrorised rural communities and travellers along the Benue Taraba axis, including the busy Kente Wukari Road, where repeated cases of kidnapping and armed robbery have been recorded.
Preliminary investigations have also linked him to another wanted bandit leader known as Aka Dogo, whose gang has been accused of disrupting movement and threatening security in several border communities between Benue and Taraba States. Security sources say the relationship between the two figures played a significant role in sustaining bandit operations across the region.
The operation has been hailed by military authorities as a major breakthrough in ongoing efforts to curb banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes in the North Central zone. Analysts believe the arrest could significantly weaken criminal networks that have operated with relative impunity in the area.
Commander of the 6 Brigade and Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, commended the troops for their professionalism, discipline, and precision. He noted that the arrest represents a serious setback for criminal elements operating not only in Benue and Taraba States but also in neighbouring areas.
Gayama is currently being held in military custody and is expected to be handed over to relevant security and judicial authorities for further investigation and prosecution in accordance with the law.
The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to sustaining aggressive and coordinated operations to restore peace and security across affected communities. It also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible intelligence, stressing that community cooperation remains critical to the success of ongoing security efforts.
The arrest comes amid intensified military campaigns against insecurity in the North Central region, where banditry and kidnappings have continued to disrupt livelihoods, threaten economic activities, and undermine public safety.
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