Crime
Troops close in on bandit leader Turji, kill commanders, 24 militants
It appears that troops are steadily closing in on notorious terrorist kingpin Bello Turji, following a series of recent bombardments on his hideouts by the Nigerian military.
In the last few weeks, the military has intensified operations targeted at Turji’s known hideouts, which has been largely successful.
Turji is a notorious terrorist leader operating in North-western Nigeria, particularly Zamfara, Sokoto and Niger states.
He had vowed to unleash terror on residents of Zamafara communities in 2025 over the arrest of his associate Bako Wurgi.
On Wednesday, the Defence Headquarters announced that the second-in-command to terrorist kingpin, Bello Turji, Aminu Kanawa, has been killed by troops of Operation Fansan Yamma.
The DHQ also stated that troops inflicted serious injuries on some of Turji’s close allies, including his younger brother.
This development comes after the DHQ revealed on Monday that troops killed Turji’s fighters and son during clearance operations on his hideout.
The military also taunted the terrorist leader for abandoning his son and fighters during the gun duel.
The DHQ had previously vowed to capture or kill Turji in 2025, following his repeated mockery of the military and challenge to engage them in combat after being declared wanted and the arrest of his associate, Bako Wurgi, in December 2024.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the DHQ reaffirmed its commitment to capturing Turji despite the recent surrender of two terrorist leaders in the North-West region.
Giving an update on the operation in the North West on Wednesday, the outgoing Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj Gen Edward Buba, also stated that over seven key commanders of Turji, along with more than 24 of Turji’s fighters fleeing his hideout, were killed when troops stormed his hideout.
Buba said, “Sequel to ongoing military onslaught on terrorist in the NW of the country, between the 20-21 Jan 2025, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA neutralised the second-in-command of notorious terrorist leader Bello Turji’s namely, Aminu Kanawa. Troops also inflicted terminal injuries on some of Bello Turji’s close allies namely: Dosso (Bello Turji’s younger brother) and Danbokolo (one of Turji’s closest allies).
“Additionally, troops neutralised several of Bello Turji’s key commanders namely: Abu Dan Shehu, Jabbi Dogo, Dan Kane, Basiru Yellow, Kabiru Gebe, Bello Buba and Dan Inna Kahon-Saniya-Yafi-Bahaushe, among others. Furthermore, troops neutralised over 24 fleeing terrorist from Bello Turji’s Camp around Gebe and Isa LGA of Sokoto State, as well as around Gidan Rijiya in Shinkafi LGA of Zamfara State.”
Buba also said troops killed another notable terrorist during the onslaught on Turji’s hideout.
He said, “Troops also neutralised another notable terrorist during the onslaught on Bello Turji’s enclave around Fakai high ground. He is identified as Suleiman, and a loyalist of late notorious terrorist leader, Halilu Sububu.
“The late Suleiman was leading a reinforcement team to rescue Bello Turji’s Camp which was in disarray, when he was eliminated during the fire fight.
“The death of Bello Turji’s second in command, close allies, commanders and combatants is a significant blow to the terrorist network in the NW of the country, as well as their military and fighting capabilities. These groups of terrorists were notorious for numerous kidnappings and terrorist attacks across the NW, particularly in Zurmi, Shinkafi, Isa, and Sabon Birni Local Government Areas in Zamfara and Sokoto States.
“Overall, troops are not relenting until these terrorists are completely destroyed. Troops operations are aimed at creating an atmosphere of safety and security for all citizens.”
The onslaught on Turji and his group has brought delights to some residents of
Sokoto State has commended the Nigerian security agents, especially the Military for their efforts in dealing with bandits Kingpin and his gangs.
Speaking on the development, Abubakar Isa, a resident of Isa, in Isa local government area of the state, said the news of the killing is a welcome development to the people of the area.
He said the people of the area especially those in the rural areas have been suffering from the antics of the bandits for a long time which he said has collapsed the economic activities of the local government.
Mallam Nuhu Bello, a commercial motorcycle operator in the state, said the killing is a welcome development for the people of Sokoto and Zamfara States.
Bello, who hailed from Shinkafi local government area of Zamfara, said the atrocities of Turji and his gang was the reason why he left his community where he used to farm for motorcycle riding in Sokoto.
“I ran from my community because of those bandits. I used to be a farmer but had to run for safety when we couldn’t access our farms unless we pay them tax.
“The killing will definitely make the people in Shinkafi feel good and happy, “ he added.
Mallam Altini Bashar, a security commentator while speaking with one of our correspondents, commended the military efforts in the victory being recorded.
He said the military actions resulted in killing of many members of the bandits group.
He however said the real identity of those killed can only be ascertained when the operation comes to an end.
“Yes, I heard of the exercise and the killings, but I cannot confirm those who have been killed in the exercise.
“ I believe after the end of the exercise, we will know the real identity of those who lost their lives in the fight”
Meanwhile, the Sokoto State Government warned residents to remain vigilant as military operations against bandit terrorists intensify in the eastern part of the state.
In a statement signed by the Special Adviser to Governor Ahmed Aliyu on Security Matters, retired Colonel Ahmed Usman, the government highlighted the success of the ongoing joint military operations, which he said had left the bandits disorganised.
The statement added that multiple terrorist enclaves had been destroyed, dozens of bandits neutralized and hundreds of kidnapped victims rescued.
The statement urged residents to be cautious and report any suspicious activities in their communities.
“As security forces increase pressure on the bandits, some of them are fleeing to other areas with injured members. We are raising awareness to ensure our people remain alert, as these bandits may attempt to hide in villages or seek medical treatment at local clinics under disguise,” the statement read.
The government reiterated its commitment to working with security agencies to restore peace and stability in the state, adding that residents were encouraged to play an active role by reporting unusual activities to the authorities to support the ongoing efforts to secure the region.
“This proactive measure aligns with the governor’s nine-point agenda to create a safer and more economically viable Sokoto State.
“The government remains determined to work collaboratively with security operatives to protect citizens and maintain peace in the state,” the statement stated.
The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has disclosed how suspected internet fraudsters, popularly known as Yahoo boys, stole more than ₦7.2 million from the bank account of a serving judge in a midnight cyberattack.
Olukoyede made the revelation during the public presentation of two books authored by retired High Court judge, Justice Alaba Omolaye-Ajileye.
According to the EFCC chairman, the judge contacted him around 1 a.m. after receiving multiple debit alerts from her bank account. She told him that about ₦7.2 million—money she had saved over six years for her child’s education—had been fraudulently withdrawn.
He said the commission immediately swung into action and, despite legal restrictions limiting certain investigative activities in the state where the incident occurred, successfully recovered the entire sum before the close of business that same day.
Olukoyede said the incident underscores the increasing threat of cybercrime in Nigeria and warned that many people only appreciate its devastating impact after becoming victims.
He called for stronger collaboration among security agencies, the judiciary and the public to combat internet-related crimes more effectively.
The EFCC boss also urged the National Assembly and legal experts to review existing laws to accommodate the use of artificial intelligence in criminal investigations, noting that current legal provisions make it difficult for AI-generated evidence to be admitted in court.
Also speaking at the event, former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Kanu Agabi (SAN), urged anti-corruption agencies to intensify efforts to recover stolen public funds traced to foreign countries.
By Okey Maduforo Awka
Prosecution witness of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission ( EFCC) has cleared former Minister of Labor and Employment Senator Chris Ngige of allegations of ground to the tune of N80 Million.
Ngige was charged on 5 counts of conferring UNDUE advantage to 5 companies said to belong to his Associates and 3 counts of receiving monetary gifts of N38m ,and N42m through his Sen Chris Ngige Foundation Scholarship scheme and Sen Chris Ngige Campaign Organisation respectively.
Recall that on the strength of this matter the former Anambra state Governor was last year remanded at kuje Correction Center for three days and later granted bail.
Sen Ngige pleaded not guilty to the charges and pleads his innocence. Political observers believes the Minister is being witch hunted.
The EFCC prosecution witness at a Federal capital territory Court presided by Justice Marian Hassan again told the court that there was no undue influence,nor interference by the former Minister of Labour & Employment, Senator Dr Chris Ngige during the 12 months period that the NSITF Procurement was domiciled in the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment between 2021and 2022.
The Procurement activities in the Parastatal’s Tenders board PTB and the Ministerial Tenders Board MTB performed their activities with due process and no hindrance.
The witness; Dr Maduka Onwusoro,now a Permanent Secretary said he served as Director of Procurement in the Labour Ministry 2019 up to 2023,with his Deputy Ms Joyce Akponor who was later deployed to NSITF on their request to man the needs of the various Departments ,collate bids and forward for PTB and MTB awards between 2021 and 2022.
Under Cross Examination by Lead defence Counsel PIN Ikwueto SAN the witness took a look at an Exhibit tendered by the Prosecution, he then affirmed that the approval annotation made on the document were his and affirmed that all the companies recommended and approval by the MTB in the document were done on merit and that there was no UNDUE interference or influence by anyone.
The Ex -Minister was being accused of conferring undue advantage Messrs Zitacom Ltd,Shale Atlantic ,and Olde English Consolidated ltd were on the list with many other companies.
The witness said as overall supervisor of Procurement activities no pressure was brought on him in connection with the 3 companies.
Earlier during his appearance last Thursday the same witness was emphatic that two other Companies Messrs Cezimo Ltd and Jeff & Xris Ltd also passed through due process and got their contracts on merit because there were pre- qualified and gave lowest bids.
Thereafter the defence sought to tender through the Bar some documents which were approvals and directives given to the then Secretary to the Government of the Federation( SGF )and the former Minister, Ngige by the former President Muhammadu Buhari but the Prosecution opposed and pointed out that the certification of the documents by the Federal Ministry of Labour Human Resources Department were not properly done in accordance with a past Supreme Court ruling on certification of documents.
This prompted the defence team to withdraw the application to tender them ,to enable them do the needful.
Thereafter the Judge adjourned the matter to October 14 2026 for further hearing.
The Enugu State Police Command says it has recorded major operational successes in its ongoing border security operations under the Inspector-General of Police’s “Handshake Patrol” initiative.
The operations, carried out at different border locations across the state, led to the foiling of an attempted armed robbery, the neutralisation of one suspected armed robber, the arrest of four other suspects, and the recovery of two firearms, suspected illicit drugs and other incriminating exhibits.
According to the Command, operatives attached to the Amechi-Idodo Division, working with members of the Neighbourhood Watch, foiled an armed robbery attempt along the Enugu–Abakaliki Road at about 6:15 a.m. on June 28, 2026.
The police said the gang had blocked a section of the highway to rob commuters but was confronted by security operatives in a gun battle. The gang, which was already on the Command’s watchlist for a series of armed robberies along the border route, was forced to flee.
Its alleged leader, Ifesinachi Kenneth, sustained gunshot injuries during the exchange of fire and was arrested. Information obtained from him reportedly led to the arrest of another suspect, Izuchukwu Nwanga, who allegedly kept the gang’s proceeds of crime. Kenneth was taken to hospital but was later confirmed dead.
In a separate operation at about 5:30 p.m. the same day, operatives from the Umumba Division, acting on credible intelligence, raided a suspected criminal hideout at Umumba Ndiagu in Ezeagu Local Government Area, near the Anambra State border.
The operation led to the arrest of two suspects, identified as Uwah Ifesinachi Sunday, 23, and Chinonso Okafor Paul, 25. Police recovered a locally fabricated pistol, a knife, a pair of scissors and quantities of substances suspected to be Indian hemp.
Also on June 28, at about 10:00 a.m., operatives of the Command’s Distress Response Squad (DRS), during a stop-and-search operation along the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway at Ugwuoba in Oji River Local Government Area, intercepted a commercial tricycle carrying passengers.
A search led to the recovery of a locally made cut-to-size gun allegedly belonging to 21-year-old Ifediri Nwobu. Police said the suspect attempted to escape by jumping into a nearby river but was successfully apprehended.
The Command said investigations are ongoing to arrest other fleeing suspects, while all those arrested will be charged in court upon the conclusion of investigations.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, commended the professionalism and bravery of the operatives and members of the Neighbourhood Watch, reaffirming the Command’s commitment to strengthening border security and combating violent crime through intelligence-led policing. He also urged residents to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies with credible information.
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has explained the circumstances surrounding the public arrest of former Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, saying the action followed his repeated failure to honour invitations and a valid court order.
The explanation appears to validate earlier media reports that Nnaji was arrested at the airport, following initial denials from some quarters.
In a statement issued on Thursday, ICPC spokesperson John Odey said the commission obtained a court warrant authorising Nnaji’s arrest after he allegedly ignored several invitations for questioning over allegations of certificate forgery.
According to the commission, Nnaji was arrested on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, upon his arrival at the Abuja airport with the assistance of the Department of State Services (DSS) and was subsequently taken to the ICPC headquarters for interrogation.
The anti-graft agency also disclosed that it had secured a 14-day remand order to keep the former minister in custody while investigations continue, adding that the detention could be extended if necessary.
Odey said the commission had earlier sent formal invitations to Nnaji through a letter dated May 15, 2026, referenced ICPC/HC/CSTF/GUN/GBT/T.1/VOL.V16, which were delivered to his known addresses in Abuja and Enugu as well as via email. However, he allegedly failed to appear for the scheduled investigative interviews.
Following his refusal to honour the invitations, the ICPC approached the Federal High Court, Abuja Division, in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1160/2026, where it obtained an order on June 11, 2026, authorising his arrest to facilitate investigation.
The commission said the investigation centres on allegations that Nnaji submitted forged academic credentials, including a degree certificate purportedly issued by the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and a National Youth Service Corps discharge certificate during his 2023 ministerial screening.
“The Commission assures the public that the matter will be pursued diligently in accordance with the law,” the statement said.
A student of Osun State University (UNIOSUN), identified simply as Ademola, has alleged that she was assaulted when soldiers from the Army Depot in Osogbo reportedly invaded student hostels.
Speaking in a video shared by OsunDefenderNG, Ademola recounted that the incident occurred while she was alone in her room preparing a meal.
According to her, she initially noticed soldiers around the hostel but assumed the situation had calmed down before they allegedly returned.
The development follows Monday night’s reported invasion of student hostels by soldiers from the Army Depot, Osogbo. During the incident, several students were allegedly assaulted, while more than 60 mobile phones and other electronic devices were reportedly taken away.
There were also allegations that some female students were stripped naked and forced to dance unclothed by some of the soldiers, who were said to have participated in the Army Depot’s passing-out parade held last Saturday.
Recounting her experience, Ademola said she was cooking in her room when the soldiers returned to the area.
“They started shining their torch into my room and asked who was inside. They told me to open the door, and I did. One of them asked how many people were in the room, and I told him there were two, explaining that my roommate was not around,” she said.
Fighting back tears, the student alleged that one of the soldiers became physically aggressive.
“He pinned me against my bathroom door, told me I would like it and warned me not to shout. I begged him and struggled to free myself. I managed to get to the door and told him to leave, but he asked if I really wanted him to go,” she alleged.
Ademola further claimed that another soldier entered the room and attempted to calm her while encouraging her not to resist.
“His colleague came in and told me to calm down, saying I would enjoy it and shouldn’t shout. When they started moving towards me, I screamed loudly. After I shouted, they both left, and I quickly forced the door shut,” she said.
She added that shortly afterward, a fellow hostel resident knocked on her door to check on her after hearing the commotion.
In response to the allegations, the Army Depot, Osogbo, on Tuesday announced that it had launched an investigation into the alleged misconduct following a complaint by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Southwest Zone D.
The Army said the investigation is aimed at establishing the facts surrounding the incident and assured the public that any personnel found culpable would be held accountable in accordance with the law.
-
Sports5 days agoMorocco Fans In Netherlands Arrested By Police While Celebrating World Cup Victory
-
Opinion5 days agoOPEN LETTER TO GOV NWIFURU: Time to Stop the Forceful Takeover of People’s Lands in Abakaliki (Part 1)
-
Politics5 days agoGovernor disowns Commissioner as crisis deepens over APC Candidates list
-
Politics4 days ago2027: PDP, APC, NDC Collapse Structures Into APGA NASS Candidate In Anambra
-
News3 days agoFormer Minister Uche Nnaji Reportedly Arrested at Enugu Airport Over Alleged Certificate Forgery
-
News4 days agoCourt grants Sowore fresh N200m bail
-
Crime3 days agoPastor, two members kidnapped at gunpoint, Benue church cries out
-
Crime3 days agoUNIOSUN Student Alleges Assault During Soldiers’ Raid on Hostel