The Nigerian government has revealed how terrorists, linked to notorious criminal leader Bello Turji, acquired a military-grade gun truck from Libya for ₦28.5 million. The revelation came during court proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where five individuals connected to Turji’s group are facing charges related to terrorism.
The accused, identified as Musa Kamarawa, Abubakar Hashimu (alias Doctor), Bashir Abdullahi, Samuel Chinedu, and Lucky Chukwuma, are accused of importing the military vehicle and supplying it to terrorist commander Kachalla Halilu. The prosecution alleges that this transaction was part of a broader effort to support terrorist factions operating in Nigeria’s northwestern states, including Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kaduna.
In addition to the acquisition of the gun truck, the suspects are charged with providing material support to terrorist operations, including the procurement of illicit drugs, military uniforms, and construction materials for terrorist camps. These actions are said to violate the Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act of 2013.
The arraignment, initially scheduled for December 20, was delayed until December 23 to allow the defendants time to secure legal representation. Meanwhile, three additional suspects, including Bello Turji, remain at large.
This case highlights the growing challenge Nigeria faces in combating terrorism, particularly the infiltration of sophisticated weaponry from conflict zones like Libya. The government has reaffirmed its commitment to prosecuting those involved in such activities and disrupting the supply chains that fuel terrorism in the region.
