Troops Block Arms Supply to Terrorists in Zamfara, Intensify Hunt for Bello Turji 

Nigerian troops successfully intercepted an arms supply to terrorists in Zamfara State and have launched a manhunt for notorious bandit leader Bello Turji.

Soldiers from the 1 Brigade of the Joint Task Force, Operation Hadarin Daji, along with Department of State Services (DSS) operatives, have seized a cache of weapons in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area, Zamfara State.

The operation carried out on January 27, 2025, was based on credible intelligence regarding the activities of suspected arms dealers purportedly operating from Niger Republic.

Lt. Col. Abdullahi Abubakar, the spokesperson for the operation, confirmed in a statement that the mission was successful. He mentioned that this interception is an important step toward reducing the spread of illegal arms in the area.

Abubakar stated, “The troops initiated a secret operation to track the suspects, resulting in a chase along the Kaura Namoda-Zurmi road. The suspects tried to evade capture by driving their vehicle into the bush but had to abandon it after being confronted by the troops.”

During the vehicle search, authorities discovered a substantial cache of weapons that included: two PKT machine guns, nine AK-47 rifles, thirteen magazines, 171 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and nine rounds of PKT ammunition.

The military also disclosed that efforts to apprehend the fugitive terrorist Bello Turji have intensified. He continues to evade capture by frequently moving between different hideouts.

Lt. Col. Abubakar reassured the public that the troops are fully dedicated to capturing the infamous terrorist and protecting communities in the area.

“We sincerely thank the public for their concern on this issue and encourage local residents to keep supporting us by reporting any information that might aid our efforts,” he added.

The military reaffirmed its dedication to upholding security and called on citizens to stay alert and work together.