Troops intercept arms cache in Zamfara as search for terrorist kingpin Bello Turji continues
A large cache of arms has been intercepted by the troops of the 1 Brigade of the Joint Task Force, Operation Fasan Yamma, in collaboration with operatives of the Department of State Services in an operation carried out in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area of Zamfara state following intelligence on the activities of suspected arms dealers linked to the Niger Republic.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Coordinator Joint Media Centre, Operation Fasan Yamma, Lt. Col. Abubakar Abdullahi, the operation conducted on January 27, 2025, was based on actionable intelligence.
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“Acting swiftly on the intelligence, the troops launched a covert operation to track the suspects. The pursuit unfolded along the Kaura Namoda-Zurmi road, where the suspects attempted to evade capture by veering their vehicle into the bush. However, the troops’ tactical response forced them to abandon their vehicle and flee,” the statement read.
Meanwhile, a thorough search of the abandoned vehicle uncovered the following items: two PKT machine guns, nine AK-47 rifles, 13 magazines, 171 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and nine rounds of PKT ammunition
However, the troops have disclosed that they are intensifying efforts to capture notorious terrorist Bello Turji, who has evaded arrest by frequently relocating his hideouts.
Security forces have assured the public of their determination to track and apprehend Turji, emphasising their commitment to restoring peace and stability in Zamfara and surrounding areas.
Source: PUNCH
