Troops from the 1 Brigade of the Nigerian Army have apprehended notorious bandit leader and arms dealer Bako Wurgi, alias Baka NaGarba
Wurgi is suspected to be responsible for the murder of the Emir of Gobir, Isa Mohammad Bawa, in Sokoto State.
Zagazola Makama, a counterterrorism expert specializing in the Lake Chad Basin, shared the news on his X handle on Sunday, stating that the operation leading to Wurgi’s arrest occurred on Saturday.
According to Makama, the bandit leader was receiving medical treatment at a hospital in Shinkafi town, Zamfara State, for injuries sustained during a clash with a rival group.
Makama said, “Intelligence sources revealed that Wurgi had been transported to the hospital with multiple cuts and gunshot wounds. During the operation, two of his accomplices fled, but troops arrested another individual who assisted in transporting the suspect in a tricycle.”
The late Emir of Gobir was kidnapped on July 9, 2024, in Sabon Birnin Local Government Area, Sokoto State, and was killed on August 22 after ransom negotiations failed.
“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,” Makama explained.
Makama also noted that Wurgi, an arms smuggler with international connections, is reportedly related to notorious bandit leader Bello Turji through his grandfather. He added, “His son, Sani Duna, is alleged to act as a getaway biker for Turji, highlighting familial links within the banditry network.”
Makama concluded, “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 continues for his accomplices.
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