Federal Government to Arraign Five Suspects Linked to Terrorist Kingpin Bello Turji
The Federal Government is set to arraign five suspects connected to the notorious terrorist leader Bello Turji on Monday, December 25, 2024, at the Federal High Court in Abuja. The suspects were arrested by Nigerian security agencies and will face charges filed by the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) before Justice Emeka Nwite.
Although initially scheduled for arraignment on Friday, the suspects’ pleas could not be taken as no legal representation appeared on their behalf. AGF’s lawyer, David Kaswe, requested a short adjournment to allow the suspects time to secure legal counsel. Consequently, the court has fixed Monday for their formal arraignment.
The AGF has filed an 11-count charge (FHC/ABJ/CR/633/2024) against the five suspects, who are accused of providing material support to various terrorist groups led by Turji and other notorious figures. Three of the suspects named in the charge, including Turji, are still at large.
The charges include allegations of supplying illicit drugs, military and police uniforms, building materials, and other supplies to terrorist camps across Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kaduna States. Additionally, the suspects are accused of aiding the procurement of a military gun truck, which was allegedly supplied to a terrorist leader for use in acts of terrorism.
The suspects face multiple offenses under the Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act 2013, with potential penalties for their involvement in supporting terrorist activities.
