The Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has categorically dismissed reports circulating on various platforms about the arrest of the notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji. In a statement released early this morning, the DHQ clarified that all claims regarding the capture of Turji by troops should be treated as “fake news.”
Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, urged Nigerians to disregard any information suggesting that Turji has been apprehended. “BELLO TURJI: All news regarding the arrest of Bello Turji by troops should be treated as fake news, please,” Buba stated in an official release. This statement comes amidst a backdrop of intense military activities in Zamfara State, where Turji has been known to operate.
The clarification from the DHQ follows reports from security analysts and counter-insurgency experts who have also cast doubt on the veracity of the arrest claims. Zagazola Makama, a well-known counter-insurgency analyst, emphasized that an audio recording circulating online, where individuals claim Turji was captured, lacks credible basis and is misleading. Makama further noted that Bello Turji remains at large, with security forces intensifying their efforts to locate and apprehend him.
Read also: Nigerian Army reaffirms professionalism to national defense at 3 Division Cadre Event
The military’s ongoing operations in the region have seen significant action, including the reported killing of Turji’s son and several of his fighters during a recent clearance operation. Despite these successes, Brigadier General Opurum Timothy, Commander of the 1 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, described Turji as a coward on the run due to the military’s persistent onslaught.
General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, has previously highlighted the military’s commitment to capturing or neutralizing prominent terrorists like Turji. Despite his recent declarations of readiness to surrender, the lack of concrete action from Turji has kept the military on high alert. In a related development, the DHQ confirmed the surrender of two other terrorist leaders, indicating a possible shift in the dynamics of banditry in the Northwest region.
The Nigerian public has been advised to remain vigilant and to rely on official channels for accurate updates regarding security operations. The DHQ’s dismissal of Turji’s arrest underscores the complexity of combating banditry in Nigeria’s troubled Northwest, where misinformation can often complicate the security situation.
