Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 1 Brigade have arrested a notorious bandit leader and arms dealer, Bako Wurgi, also known as Baka NaGarba. The arrest took place on Saturday during an operation in Shinkafi, Zamfara State.
Wurgi, who is suspected of masterminding the abduction and murder of the Emir of Gobir, Isa Mohammad Bawa, in Sokoto State, was apprehended while receiving medical treatment for injuries sustained in a clash with a rival group.
Counterterrorism expert Zagazola Makama shared the development on his X handle on Sunday, citing intelligence reports as the basis for the operation.
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According to Makama, Wurgi was transported to the hospital in Shinkafi with multiple cuts and gunshot wounds, prompting intelligence sources to alert the military.
During the operation, two of Wurgi’s accomplices fled, but troops managed to arrest another individual who had assisted in transporting the suspect using a tricycle.
Recall, the late Emir of Gobir was abducted on July 9, 2024, in Sabon Birnin Local Government Area, Sokoto State.
He was tragically killed on August 22, 2024, after ransom negotiations—which reportedly involved cash and motorcycles—collapsed.
Intelligence suggests that Wurgi played a pivotal role in both the kidnapping and the eventual murder of the traditional ruler.
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Makama’s report highlights Wurgi’s alleged links to prominent banditry networks in the region. An arms smuggler with international connections, Wurgi is said to be related to Bello Turji, a notorious bandit leader, through his grandfather.
Furthermore, Wurgi’s son, Sani Duna, is believed to act as a getaway biker for Turji, underscoring the familial ties that bolster these criminal activities.
Wurgi’s arrest is considered a major breakthrough in the ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and banditry in the state.
He is currently being held at an undisclosed location as authorities continue their investigation. Meanwhile, a manhunt is underway to apprehend his fleeing accomplices.