Troops Intercept Arms Cache In Zamfara As Search For Terrorist Kingpin Turji Intensifies

Troops from 1 Brigade of the Joint Task Force Operation Fansan Yamma, in collaboration with operatives from the Department of State Services (DSS), have intercepted a cache of arms abandoned by fleeing terrorists in the Kaura Namoda local government area of Zamfara State.

Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi, the Coordinator of the Joint Media Coordination Center for Operation Fansan Yamma, confirmed the operation in a statement on Tuesday. According to the statement, the interception was based on intelligence about suspected arms dealers operating from Niger Republic.

The operation led the troops to pursue the suspects along the Kaura Namoda-Zurmi Road. In an attempt to evade capture, the suspects diverted their vehicle into the bush but were forced to abandon it after the troops engaged them.

A subsequent search of the abandoned vehicle resulted in the recovery of significant arms, including 2 PKT machine guns, 9 AK-47 rifles, 13 magazines, 171 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and 9 rounds of PKT ammunition.

The statement further emphasized that the troops are continuing their search for the notorious terrorist kingpin, Bello Turji, who remains at large, evading capture by constantly moving between hideouts. Lieutenant Colonel Abdullahi reassured the public that the military is committed to apprehending Turji as part of its broader effort to ensure the safety and security of local communities.

The statement also called on the public to continue their support and cooperation by providing any information that may assist the military in its pursuit of the fugitive.