Troops from the 1 Brigade of the Nigerian Army have captured Bako Wurgi, a notorious bandit leader and arms dealer also known as Baka NaGarba. Wurgi is implicated in the murder of Emir of Gobir, Isa Mohammad Bawa, in Sokoto State.
The arrest was confirmed by counterterrorism expert Zagazola Makama, who shared the news on his X handle. Makama stated that the operation leading to Wurgi’s capture occurred on Saturday.
Intelligence reports revealed that Wurgi was receiving treatment at a hospital in Shinkafi town, Zamfara State, for injuries sustained during a clash with a rival faction.
Makama explained, “Intelligence sources informed me that troops apprehended Wurgi after discovering he had been transported to the hospital with multiple cuts and gunshot wounds.”
During the operation, two of Wurgi’s associates escaped, but another person who helped transport him was arrested.
Wurgi is believed to have been involved in the abduction and murder of the Emir of Gobir, who was kidnapped on July 9, 2024, in Sabon Birnin Local Government Area, Sokoto State.
After ransom talks collapsed, the Emir was killed on August 22. “Reports indicate that Wurgi played a key role in the kidnapping and subsequent killing, which involved ransom negotiations that included cash and motorcycles but ultimately failed,” Makama noted.
Makama further identified Wurgi as an arms smuggler with international connections. “He is reportedly related to Bello Turji, a notorious bandit leader, through his grandfather. His son, Sani Duna, is alleged to act as a getaway biker for Turji,” he added.
The arrest is seen as a significant success in the fight against terrorism and banditry in Nigeria’s Northwest region. Wurgi is currently in custody, while a manhunt continues for his accomplices.
