Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja, recently ordered the remand of four individuals suspected to be involved in terrorism activities linked to notorious bandit kingpin, Bello Turji.
The suspects—Musa Kamarawa, Abubakar Hashimu, Samuel Chinedu, and Lucky Chukwuma—were arraigned on an 11-count charge concerning their alleged involvement in supporting terrorism. The court’s decision marks a significant step in the Nigerian government’s ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks linked to Turji.
Charges Against the Defendants
The four defendants were charged with terrorism offenses, including the provision of material support to terrorist groups. The charges detailed their alleged roles in supplying illicit substances, such as penta injections and cannabis, along with food items, military and police uniforms, and camouflage clothing.
These actions were purportedly aimed at facilitating the logistics of terrorism, enabling the groups to continue their operations in Nigeria. The Federal Government, represented by the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, filed these charges against eight individuals, four of whom remain at large. Turji, the notorious bandit leader, is among those still evading capture.
Turji: Ongoing Security Operations and Trial Adjournment
Following the defendants’ not guilty pleas, Justice Nwite ordered that they be remanded in the Kuje Correctional Centre until their trial begins. The case has been adjourned to February 10, 2025, for further proceedings.
The Nigerian government’s efforts to apprehend the remaining suspects, including Bello Turji, continue, as security agencies work tirelessly to dismantle the networks that support his criminal activities. These arrests and charges highlight the government’s intensified commitment to combating terrorism and the proliferation of banditry in the country.
