Troops of the 1 Brigade, Nigerian Army, have captured Baka Wurgi, also known as Baka NaGarba, a notorious bandit leader and arms dealer implicated in the murder of the Emir of Gobir, Alhaji Isa Mohammad Bawa, in Sokoto State.
The operation, executed on Dec. 14 at 10 p.m., was based on intelligence that Wurgi was receiving treatment at a hospital in Shinkafi, Zamfara State, for severe injuries sustained during a clash with a rival group.
Sources to Zagazola Makama said that Wurgi, bearing multiple cuts and gunshot wounds, was apprehended while receiving medical care.
Two of his accomplices managed to flee during the raid, but another individual, who had transported Wurgi to the hospital using a tricycle, was arrested.
The late Emir of Gobir was kidnapped on July 9, 2024, in Sabon Birnin Local Government Area of Sokoto State. His murder on Aug. 22 followed failed ransom negotiations involving cash and motorcycles. Wurgi is suspected of playing a central role in the abduction and killing.
Described as a notorious arms smuggler with international connections, Wurgi reportedly shares familial ties with Bello Turji, another infamous bandit leader, through their grandfather.
The arrest of Wurgi has been hailed as a significant achievement in the Nigerian Army’s campaign against terrorism and banditry in the Northwest region.
Wurgi is currently being held at an undisclosed location as the search intensifies for his fleeing accomplices.
Residents of Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara states have commended the military’s success, expressing hope that this development will lead to a decline in the violence and insecurity plaguing the region.
