Bandits believed to be affiliated with notorious leader Bello Turji have kidnapped 10 passengers and torched their vehicle on the Kaura-Namoda-Shinkafi Road in Zamfara State.
This attack occurred shortly after the Defence Headquarters labeled Turji as “a dead man walking,” promising action against him and other terror leaders by 2025.
Turji had threatened to escalate violence if his brother, Baka Wurgi, detained by the military, was not released.
Local sources reported that this incident marked the first time bandits burned a vehicle post-abduction, raising concerns about escalating violence in the region.
“This is the first time we are witnessing this sad event for bandits to burn a vehicle after they abducted the passengers.
“They used to kidnap people along the road, but they have never burnt vehicles after an operation.” An indigene of the area, Garba Sani stated.
Dr. Sani Shinkafi, a prominent member of the ruling All Progressives Congress, emphasized the urgency for security forces to act against Turji to prevent further violence.
He criticized the military for inaction while Turji continues to issue threats via videos.
Attempts to reach Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, for comment were unsuccessful as he did not respond to calls or messages.
