Panic In Zamfara As Bandit Turji’s N30m Levy Deadline Expires

The people of Moriki town in Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State are living in fear as the deadline for paying a N30 million levy imposed by notorious bandit kingpin, Bello Turji, has expired.

Turji imposed the levy after the military reportedly killed over 100 of his cows. He warned the community to pay the amount or face dire consequences, with the deadline set for September 9.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that despite efforts to raise funds, the community has been unable to gather the money, leading some residents to flee in fear of an imminent attack.

A resident, Sani Musa, shared that he evacuated his family due to the looming threat, while others like Zayyanu Hassan, unable to flee due to age and illness, remain in the town despite the danger.

Meanwhile, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, vowed on Tuesday that the military would soon capture Turji and end the imposition of levies on citizens by non-state actors like bandits.

He described Turji as a “deranged individual” and assured Nigerians that the military would address the issue swiftly.

General Musa also revealed that bandits rely heavily on the money they extort from communities, but the military would soon put an end to the menace. He emphasized the need for local communities to stop providing information and support to bandits, as such assistance fuels their activities.

He warned residents against collaborating with bandits, citing instances where locals informed the bandits of military vulnerabilities.

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The Chief of Defence Staff announced the harmonization of military operations in the North-West under a unified command called “Operation Kasar Yamma” to more effectively address security challenges in the region.

He urged citizens to cooperate with the military and refrain from aiding bandits, stressing that the military is committed to securing the region

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