Federal Government to Arraign Suspected Terrorists Linked to Bello Turji Group
The Federal Government will arraign five suspected terrorists linked to the notorious Bello Turji-led group at the Federal High Court in Abuja today. The suspects—Musa Kamarawa, Abubakar Hashimu (alias Doctor), Bashir Abdullahi, Samuel Chinedu, and Lucky Chukwuma—were arrested by security agencies and face multiple terrorism charges.
Initially scheduled for arraignment last Friday, the case was postponed when no defense counsel appeared for the accused. Justice Emeka Nwite, a vacation judge, granted a short adjournment to allow the suspects to secure legal representation, rescheduling the hearing for Monday.
Through the Department of Public Prosecutions, the Attorney-General of the Federation filed an 11-count charge against the suspects. The charges allege that the accused provided material support to terrorist groups operating in Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kaduna States. This includes supplying illicit drugs, military gear, and building materials to camps used by terrorists.
The suspects are also accused of procuring a military gun truck from Libya in 2021 for N28.5 million, allegedly delivering it to a terrorist leader, Kachalla Halilu, for use in violent attacks. Additionally, they allegedly provided medical care and shelter to Bello Turji after he sustained gunshot wounds during an attack on Tungar Kolo Village in Zamfara State.
The charges, which also name three suspects still at large, including Bello Turji himself, highlight the accused’s alleged role in facilitating acts of terrorism. These offences contravene the Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act 2013 and carry severe penalties.
