The Nigerian Army has captured Bako Wurgi, alias Baka NaGarba, a notorious bandit leader and arms dealer believed to be behind the abduction and murder of Isa Bawa, the Emir of Gobir in Sokoto State.
The late emir was kidnapped in July at the Kwanar Maharba area in Sokoto while returning from an event.
A video later surfaced showing the traditional ruler tied up and pleading with the state government to pay the ransom for his release. Tragically, he was killed three weeks later by his captors.
According to reports by Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication, Wurgi was apprehended by troops of the Nigerian Army’s 1 Brigade on December 14 around 10 p.m. in Shinkafi, Zamfara State.
The arrest followed intelligence reports indicating that the suspect was receiving treatment at a hospital for injuries sustained during a clash with a rival group.
Troops intercepted Wurgi while he was en route to the hospital, bearing multiple cuts and gunshot wounds.
While two of his accomplices managed to escape, the army detained the individual who transported him to the hospital in a tricycle.
Wurgi is suspected of orchestrating several criminal activities, including the high-profile abduction and killing of the emir.
His arrest is a significant breakthrough in the fight against banditry in northern Nigeria, particularly in Zamfara and Sokoto states, which have been plagued by violent criminal groups.
The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling banditry and restoring peace to affected regions.
Efforts are ongoing to track down Wurgi’s accomplices and dismantle the network of bandits operating in the area.
The arrest marks a critical step toward justice for the late Emir of Gobir and a demonstration of the army’s resolve to protect citizens from criminal elements.