Troops arrest notorious bandit leader behind Emir’s killing in Sokoto

In a significant breakthrough in Nigeria’s fight against banditry, troops of the 1 Brigade, Nigerian Army, have arrested a notorious bandit leader and arms dealer, Bako Wurgi, also known as Baka NaGarba.

Wurgi is suspected to be behind the brutal murder of the Emir of Gobir, Alhaji Isa Mohammad Bawa, in Sokoto State.

The arrest took place during a late-night operation on December 14, around 10 p.m., following credible intelligence reports that Wurgi was receiving medical treatment at a hospital in Shinkafi town, Zamfara State. He was reportedly nursing multiple injuries — including deep cuts and gunshot wounds — sustained during a violent clash with a rival criminal gang.

According to intelligence sources who spoke with Zagazola Makama, a respected counterinsurgency expert and security analyst in the Lake Chad region, the troops moved swiftly to apprehend Wurgi after confirming his location.

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The sources said that During the operation, two accomplices fled, but troops arrested another individual who assisted in transporting the suspect in a tricycle

The late Emir of Gobir was abducted on July 9, 2024, in Sabon Birnin Local Government Area, Sokoto State, and murdered on Aug. 22 after negotiations for his release collapsed.

Reports indicate that Wurgi played a key role in the kidnapping and subsequent killing, which involved ransom negotiations that included cash and motorcycles but ultimately failed.

Wurgi, an arms smuggler with international connections, is reportedly related to Bello Turji, a notorious bandit leader, through his grandfather.

His son, Sani Duna, is alleged to act as a getaway biker for Turji, highlighting familial links within the banditry network.

Wurgi’s arrest marks a significant milestone in ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and banditry in the Northwest region.

Wurgi is currently being held at an undisclosed location, while a manhunt is underway for his accomplices

Residents in Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara states have lauded the operation, expressing hope that it will alleviate the long-standing impact of banditry and violence in the region.