Charles Esther
The Defence Headquarters has denied circulating reports that notorious bandit kingpin, Bello Turji, has surrendered to Nigerian forces.
Official Statement from the Military
Speaking in Abuja on Thursday, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Markus Kangye, told journalists:
“Simple answer to the question about terrorist leader, Bello Turji; Turji has not surrendered, we are still on the look out for him.”
Bello Turji’s Background
Turji is accused of masterminding numerous violent attacks on communities in Nigeria’s North-West region, operating mainly in Zamfara and Sokoto states.
Wanted by Security Agencies
The bandit leader has been declared wanted multiple times by Nigerian security agencies due to his alleged involvement in kidnappings, killings, and mass raids.
Rumours of Surrender and Peace Talks
Recent reports claimed Turji had laid down his arms, released 32 kidnap victims, and entered a peace deal brokered by Islamic clerics in Zamfara State.
Military’s Position Remains Firm
The Defence Headquarters insists the claims are false and that security forces are still actively pursuing the fugitive bandit leader.
