Troops Arrest Notorious Bandit Leader Linked to Murder of Sokoto Emir

Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 1 Brigade have arrested Bako Wurgi, also known as Baka NaGarba, a suspected notorious bandit leader and arms dealer believed to be responsible for the murder of Isa Bawa, the Emir of Gobir in Sokoto State.

The late Emir was abducted in July at Kwanar Maharba, Sokoto State, while returning from an event, and tragically killed three weeks later. In a widely circulated video during the ordeal, the Emir was seen tied up, pleading with the state government to meet the ransom demands of his captors.

According to reports from Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication focusing on the Lake Chad region, Wurgi was apprehended on December 14 at around 10 p.m. in Shinkafi town, Zamfara State. His arrest followed intelligence reports that he was receiving treatment at a hospital for injuries sustained during a clash with a rival group.

The army intercepted Wurgi on his way to the hospital with severe injuries, including multiple cuts and gunshot wounds. While two of his accomplices managed to flee, troops successfully detained an individual who had been transporting the suspect in a tricycle.