A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has ordered the remand of four suspected terrorists linked to the notorious bandit kingpin, Bello Turji, in Kuje Correctional Centre.
The suspects, identified as Musa Muhammad Kamarawa, Abubakar Hashimu (alias Doctor), Samuel Chinedu, and Lucky Chukwuma, were arraigned on Monday on 11-count charge bordering on terrorism., but they pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Justice Emeka Nwite, who presided over the case in a brief ruling, directed that the defendants remain in custody and adjourned the trial until February 10, 2025.
The Federal Government, through the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), charged eight people, four of whom, including Bello Turji, are currently at large. Those at large are identified as Bashir Abdullahi, Aminu Muhammad, and Sani Lawal.
The charges which was filed on December 16, 2024, alleged that the defendants conspired to provide material support to terrorist groups.
The suspects were accused of supplying illicit drugs, military uniforms, and building materials to terrorist camps across Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kaduna states between 2018 and 2022.
Also, the suspects allegedly procured a military gun truck from Libya valued at N28.5m, which was supplied to a known terrorist leader, Kachalla Halilu.
The prosecutors argued that the charges violate Sections 8, 17, and 18 of the Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act 2013.
However, when the case was called, only four defendants were present. Justice Nwite questioned the absence of the third defendant, Bashir Abdullahi.
The prosecuting counsel, David Kaswe informed the court that Abdullahi was also at large and sought the court’s leave to record him as such, which was granted.
During the proceedings, defence counsel A.M. Lukman raised a preliminary objection, and argued that the court lacked territorial jurisdiction over the case.
Justice Nwite dismissed the objection as premature and ordered the charges to be read to the defendants.
The court also noted that one of the defendants, Hashimu, required translation into Hausa to comprehend the charges.
Following the arraignment, A.I. Mohammed, who is representing the fourth defendant, Chukwuma, requested an adjournment to file a bail application.
Justice Nwite assured the defense that the application would be heard once submitted.
The case was adjourned till February 10, 2025, when the prosecution will present evidence linking the suspects to acts of terrorism.
Turji, an alleged notorious bandit leader, has been credited for numerous attacks and kidnappings across the northwest part of the country.