The Federal Government will arraign five suspected terrorists linked to the notorious Bello Turji group at the Federal High Court in Abuja today.
The suspects, arrested by security agencies, are facing an 11-count charge filed by the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation. The arraignment will take place before Justice Emeka Nwite, who is sitting as a vacation judge.
The suspects were initially scheduled for arraignment on Friday. However, the case was adjourned because the defendants did not have legal representation. David Kaswe, representing the AGF, requested a short adjournment to allow the defendants to secure lawyers. Justice Nwite then fixed Monday for the hearing.
The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/633/2024, lists Musa Kamarawa, Abubakar Hashimu (also known as Doctor), Bashir Abdullahi, Samuel Chinedu, and Lucky Chukwuma as the first to fifth defendants.
Three other suspects, including Bello Turji, Aminu Muhammad, and Sani Lawal, remain at large.
The suspects are accused of aiding terrorist activities by providing materials and services to groups led by Turji and other notorious terrorist leaders. These include Kachalla Halilu, Danbokolo, and Lawali.
The defendants allegedly supplied illicit drugs, food items, and military gear, including uniforms, boots, and caps, to terrorist camps in forests across Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kaduna States. Building materials such as cement, zinc, and nails were also provided.
In one instance, they reportedly facilitated the purchase of a military gun truck from Libya for N28.5 million in 2021. The vehicle was allegedly given to terrorist leader Kachalla Halilu, partly paid for in cash and through electronic transfers.
The charge reads: “You knew or had reason to believe that this vehicle would be used by Kachalla Halilu, a known terrorist, to commit acts of terrorism.”
The suspects are also accused of aiding Bello Turji directly. In 2018, they allegedly provided medical treatment and shelter for Turji after he sustained gunshot wounds during an attack on Tungar Kolo Village in Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
These acts are said to contravene Sections 17, 18(a), and 8(1)(b) of the Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act 2013, which carry severe punishments under Nigerian law.
The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to combating terrorism and ensuring that those who support such activities are brought to justice. Security agencies have also vowed to track down the three suspects who remain at large.
