The Federal Government is set to arraign five suspected terrorists today (Monday) at the Federal High Court in Abuja. The suspects are believed to have ties with the notorious terrorist leader, Bello Turji. Among the charges filed against them is the alleged importation of a military-grade gun truck worth N28.5 million from Libya.
According to the charges marked FHC/ABJ/CR/633/2024, the case is before Justice Emeka Nwite. The Attorney-General of the Federation’s office revealed that the suspects were apprehended by Nigerian security agencies and will face trial before the vacation judge.
The arraignment, initially scheduled for Friday, was delayed because the suspects did not have legal representation. Counsel for the AGF, David Kaswe, requested a brief adjournment to allow the suspects to secure lawyers. Justice Nwite then fixed Monday for the hearing.
Reports from the Chronicles Reporter indicate that the Federal Government filed an 11-count charge against eight individuals, three of whom are still at large. The defendants listed in the case are Musa Kamarawa, Abubakar Hashimu (also known as Doctor), Bashir Abdullahi, Samuel Chinedu, and Lucky Chukwuma. Those still at large include Bello Turji, Aminu Muhammad, and Sani Lawal.
The suspects are accused of aiding terrorist groups led by Turji, Kachalla Halilu, Danbokolo, and others. They allegedly provided illicit drugs, including penta injections and cannabis, as well as essential supplies such as food, uniforms, and construction materials. These materials reportedly supported terrorist camps in Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kaduna states. The allegations are said to violate Section 17 of the Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act 2013, which prescribes severe penalties.
In one of the charges, Kamarawa, along with two suspects still at large, was accused of acquiring a military gun truck from Libya in 2021 and supplying it to a terrorist leader, Kachalla Halilu, for approximately N28.5 million. The transaction was allegedly made partly in cash and partly via electronic transfer, with knowledge that the vehicle would be used for acts of terrorism. This act contravenes Section 18(a) of the Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act 2013.
In another charge, Kamarawa, Hashimu, and Abdullahi were accused of aiding terrorism in 2018 by providing medical treatment and shelter to Bello Turji after he sustained gunshot injuries during an attack on Tungar Kolo Village in Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State. This is a violation of Section 8(1)(b) of the same Act.
The Federal Government continues to emphasize its commitment to combating terrorism and ensuring justice for those who enable such acts.
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