Bako Wurgi, also known as Baka NaGarba, is a prominent bandit commander and arms dealer who was captured by troops from the Nigerian Army’s 1 Brigade.
He is suspected of being responsible for the assassination of Alhaji Isa Mohammad Bawa, the Emir of Gobir, in Sokoto State.
The operation was carried out about 10 p.m. on December 14 in response to intelligence indications that Wurgi was being treated for wounds he had incurred in a fight with a rival group at a hospital in Shinkafi town, Zamfara State.
Zagazola Makama, a Counter Insurency Expert and Security Analyst in the Lake Chad region, was informed by intelligence sources that Wurgi was captured by forces after they learned he had been taken to the hospital with numerous wounds from gunshots and cuts.
According to the sources, two accomplices escaped during the operation, while troops detained a third person who helped move the suspect in a bike.
After talks for his release broke down, the late Emir of Gobir was kidnapped on July 9, 2024, in Sabon Birnin Local Government Area, Sokoto State, and killed on August 22.
According to reports, Wurgi was a major player in the kidnapping and subsequent murder, which included unsuccessful ransom talks involving money and motorcycles.
According to reports, Wurgi, an international arms smuggler, is linked to infamous bandit leader Bello Turji via his grandfather.
Family ties within the banditry network are highlighted by the allegations that his son, Sani Duna, serves as a getaway rider for Turji.
In the continuous fight against terrorism and banditry in the Northwest, Wurgi’s capture represents a critical turning point.
Wurgi is being detained at an undisclosed place at the moment, and his accomplices are being sought.
The operation has been praised by the people of Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara states, who expect it will lessen the long-standing effects of violence and banditry in the area.