Nigerian Defence Headquarters Denies Reports of Turji Bello’s Arrest
The Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has firmly rejected reports claiming that notorious bandit leader Bello Turji has been captured by Nigerian troops. In a brief but clear statement, the DHQ dismissed the news as fake and urged Nigerians to disregard such claims.
The statement, signed by Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, read: “BELLO TURJI: All news regarding the arrest of Bello Turji by troops should be treated as fake news, please.”
DHQ Dismisses Claims of Bandit Leader Bello Turji’s Capture as Fake News
This statement comes at a time when reports of Turji’s possible arrest had been circulating, only for the DHQ to set the record straight, labeling the information as false. Despite the misleading reports, the military continues its efforts to target Turji and other bandit leaders threatening national security.
Nigerian Army Confirms Turji Bello Is Still on the Run, Describes Him as a Coward
Brigadier General Opurum Timothy, Commander of the 1 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, echoed the DHQ’s stance, calling Turji a coward currently evading capture due to intense military operations in Zamfara. General Opurum reassured the public that the military remains committed to clearing out bandits and restoring peace across Zamfara and the broader Northwest region.
Turji Bello Spotted in Kalage Forest as Military Doubts Capture Claims
Amidst the confusion surrounding Turji’s whereabouts, security analyst and counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama reported that the bandit leader was recently seen operating from Kalage Forest in the Mashema region of Eastern Kagara, Zamfara State. Makama confirmed that Turji was in the area with two of his trusted lieutenants, identified as Office and Ibrahim Buzu.
Meanwhile, Chief of Defence Staff Christopher Musa had previously stated that Turji had shown interest in negotiating with the Nigerian military, raising questions about his true intentions.
