Notorious bandit kingpin, Bello Turji threatens violence over arrest of ally, Wurgi

Notorious bandit kingpin, Bello Turji has reportedly threatened to unleash violence on communities in Zamfara and Sokoto States following the arrest of his close ally and mentor, Bako Wurgi, who was arrested by Nigerian troops last Sunday.

Wurgi, a wanted bandit leader linked to the abduction and murder of the Emir of Gobir in Sokoto State, Alhaji Isa Mohammad in August, was nabbed by troops of the 1 Brigade of the Nigerian Army last Sunday.

But according to counter-insurgency and security expert, Zagazola Makama, Wurgi’s arrest has made Turji very uncomfortable and has issued threats of violence including killing of hostages if Wurgi is not released immediately.

Makama who raised the alarm in a post on his X handle on Tuesday, said Turji has vowed to attack several communities in Sokoto and Zamfara and disrupt peace in the states if anything should happen to his ally.

“The notorious bandit leader Bello Turji has reportedly issued a series of threats following the arrest of his close associate, Wurgi, a key lieutenant in Turji’s camp who is said to be instrumental in ransom negotiations/collections of hostages captured and held by bandits in their enclaves to the eastern areas of Sokoto and Zamfara states particularly from communities in areas such as Isa, Sabon Birni (in Sokoto State), and Shinkafi (in Zamfara State),” Makama said.

“Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama, that his arrest has reportedly infuriated Turji, sparking a wave of concern among residents and authorities in the affected regions.

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“Turji’s Demands and Threats

“Impeccable sources familiar with the situation said Bello Turji has already contacted influential figures in the Shinkafi area like the village heads/chiefs, threatening to attack their communities to ensure they secure Wurgi’s release from security services.

“Optionally, Turji has also allegedly pledged to spend any amount of money or livestock necessary to ensure that Wurgi is released. He is said to have a significant number of people and livestock under his control, and he has declared his willingness to use them as leverage to force authorities into compliance.

“However, if these efforts fail, Turji has vowed to escalate the situation. He reportedly threatened to disrupt peace across eastern Sokoto and Shinkafi towns, promising to unleash widespread violence on the affected areas.

“Turji has vowed to execute some of the hostages currently in his custody, including residents from Isa, Sabon Birni, and Shinkafi.

“This is not the first time Turji has resorted to such tactics. Five years ago, he issued similar threats, leading to the release of another of his allies, Dikko Chida. At the time, Turji had warned of dire consequences, forcing the government to negotiate and ultimately release Dikko.

“The arrest of Wurgi presents an opportunity for authorities to deal a significant blow to Turji’s operations. However, how the government handles the current situation will likely determine whether Turji’s threats materialize or if a lasting solution to banditry in the region can be achieved.”

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