The Nigerian Army has apprehended Baka Wurgi, a notorious bandit leader and international arms dealer also known as Baka NaGarba. Wurgi is allegedly linked to the brutal assassination of Alhaji Isa Mohammad Bawa, the Emir of Gobir, in Sokoto State.
Troops from the 1 Brigade carried out the operation on December 14 at 10 p.m. in Shinkafi town, Zamfara State, acting on intelligence that Wurgi was being treated at a local hospital for injuries sustained in a clash with a rival gang. Security analyst Zagazola Makama confirmed that Wurgi, who had multiple cuts and gunshot wounds, was tracked down and captured during the raid.
While two of Wurgi’s accomplices managed to escape, the troops arrested another individual who assisted in transporting the bandit leader to the hospital on a tricycle.
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The late Emir of Gobir was kidnapped on July 9, 2024, in Sabon Birnin Local Government Area, Sokoto State, and later killed on August 22 when ransom negotiations collapsed. Reports indicate that Wurgi played a central role in the kidnapping and subsequent murder, which involved failed ransom talks demanding cash and motorcycles.
Wurgi’s criminal network runs deep, with connections to Bello Turji, another infamous bandit leader. Their ties reportedly extend through Wurgi’s grandfather, while his son, Sani Duna, has been accused of aiding Turji’s escape during a previous operation.
This high-profile arrest marks a significant milestone in the fight against banditry and terrorism in the Northwest, a region long plagued by insecurity. Authorities have intensified efforts to apprehend Wurgi’s fleeing accomplices as he remains in custody at an undisclosed location.