Troops Intercept Arms Cache In Zamfara As Search For Terrorist Kingpin Turji Intensifies

Troops of 1 Brigade of the Joint Task Force Operation Fansan Yamma, in collaboration with operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) on Monday intercepted cache of arms abandoned by fleeing terrorists in the Kaura Namoda local government area of Zamfara State.

The Coordinator, Join Media Coordinator Center, Operation Fansan Yamma, Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi, in a statement on Tuesday said the operation was based on intelligence regarding suspected arms dealers operating from Niger Republic.

The statement said the troops launched a covert operation to track the suspects, resulting in a pursuit along the Kaura Namoda-Zurmi Road.

He added that the suspects attempted to escape by diverting their vehicle into the bush but were forced to abandon it after being engaged by the troops.

The Director said subsequent search of the vehicle led to the recovery of 2 PKT machine guns, 9 AK-47 rifles, 13 magazines, 171 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and 9 rounds of PKT ammunition.

Lt.-Col. Abdullahi however, added that the troops are actively in the pursuit of fugitive terrorist kingpin, Bello Turji, assuring that the military personnel are

“Meanwhile, the troops are actively pursuing the wanted terrorist Bello Turji, who remains at large, evading capture by moving from hideout to hideout. We assure the public that our troops are tirelessly working to apprehend him “as part of our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our communities.”

The statement expressed deep appreciation for the concern of the public concern regarding Turji and urged locals to continue their support and cooperation by giving any information that may assist in the military efforts.