Defence Chief Promises Swift Action on Capturing Bandit Leader Bello Turji

Defence Chief Promises Swift Action on Capturing Bandit Leader Bello Turji

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has given a firm assurance to Nigerians that the capture of the notorious bandit leader Bello Turji is imminent.

In a briefing to journalists in Abuja on Tuesday, General Musa emphasised that the military is closing in on Turji, a key figure in ongoing terrorist and bandit activities.

“Turji’s capture is imminent,” he stated confidently.

General Musa described Turji as a “deranged individual” who feels empowered but is assured that it is only a matter of time before he is apprehended.

“We are going to get him, and I assure you that within the shortest possible time, we will address this issue,” he added.

He stressed the importance of collective effort in combating banditry and terrorism, urging citizens to cooperate with the armed forces and security agencies.

“We all must come together to work with members of the armed forces and security agencies to deny them the ability to move freely within our communities,” General Musa said.

The Defence Chief also warned against providing any support to bandits or leaking information about troop movements.

“Please do not give them any support. Do not give them information on the movement of troops because this is what is happening. Most of the areas where these activities continue are because we have informants within the communities,” he explained.

General Musa highlighted the challenges of asymmetric warfare, noting that dealing with non-state actors who do not wear uniforms makes the operation particularly difficult.

“You are dealing with non-state actors that are not wearing uniforms; you don’t know them, but they know you. Without the support of the community, it becomes extremely difficult,” he said.

In his closing remarks, General Musa reiterated the commitment of the armed forces and other security agencies to eradicate security threats and restore normalcy across the country.

He called on both the media and the public to support the military’s efforts in this critical mission.