Bello Turji, a known bandit, has stated that, just as the government cannot prevent the distribution of illegal firearms, no one can prevent bandits from purchasing petrol.
Turji was referring to the restrictions imposed in Zamfara in September of last year to curb the operations of the bandits in the state.
Zamfara, like many of the Nigerian Northwest states, is plagued by insecurity in the forms of kidnapping described as banditry. The crime has become rampant, and the bandits appear to be unstoppable.
The renowned kingpin who has been terrorizing Zamfara and it’s environs was interviewed for a documentary called ‘Nigeria’s Banditry: The Inside Story’ by Trust TV.
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It would be recalled that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) had previously ordered all telecommunications operators in the country to halt providing services to Zamfara and its surrounding vicinity.
Many bandits’ leaders and their foot soldiers were reported killed during raids in Zamfara State during the restriction.
“It is not acceptable to bar Fulani from entering Shinkafi; it is a local government for all inhabitants,” Turji added. Where are the Fulani meant to go if they are denied entry?
“They confiscate even a measure of grain, and if you buy a loaf of bread, they claim you’re buying it for Turji.” Is Turji the only one who eats out of everyone here?
“Can I ask you a question? Isn’t this a gun?” Is it those who failed to stop the flow of arms in Nigeria who will prevent us from purchasing petrol, which even a small child knows where to get?”
Bello Turji, also known as Kachalla Turji, is the leader of a bandit group that raids towns, villages, and settlements along the Shinkafi/Sokoto Road, Zamfara State.
Security personnel invaded Bello Turji’s primary base on July 17, 2021, and arrested his father. The villages of Kurya, Keta, Kware, Badarawa, Marisuwa, and Maberaya were then attacked by Bello Turji, who killed 42 people, abducted 150, and set fire to 338 homes.
Source: Daily Trust.
