Court issues bench warrant against Turji’s allies

A Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a bench warrant for the arrest of five suspects linked to the notorious terrorist kingpin, Bello Turji. Justice Emeka Nwite on Wednesday gave the order after the federal government’s lawyer, David Kaswe, moved the oral application to the effect following the absence of the defendants in court […]

A Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a bench warrant for the arrest of five suspects linked to the notorious terrorist kingpin, Bello Turji.

Justice Emeka Nwite on Wednesday gave the order after the federal government’s lawyer, David Kaswe, moved the oral application to the effect following the absence of the defendants in court to stand their trial.

They are Musa Kamarawa, Abubakar Hashimu, aka Doctor; Samuel Chinedu and Lucky Chukwuma.

Earlier, Justice Nwite asked their lawyer, A.M. Lukman, about their whereabouts, and he stated Kamarawa assured him they would be coming to court, adding that he was surprised at their absence.

Thus, the judge agreed with Kaswe’s submission to issue a bench warrant for the arrest of the defendants wherever they are found.

The federal government had, on December 16, 2024, brought the charges through the Director of the Department of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, against the defendants, including Bello Turji, Aminu Muhammad and Sani Lawal, who are said to be at large.

The suspects were alleged to have provided material services to terrorist groups led by Turji, Kachalla Halilu, Danbokolo, Lawali, Atarwatse, Buderi and others.

They were accused of procuring and supplying illicit drugs, including penta injections and cannabis plants (aka indian hemp); food items; military and police uniforms, camouflage, boots, caps and building materials for the terror groups.

They were also accused of providing bags of cement, cover zinc, bags of nails, M.M. iron rods, etc., to terrorist camps in the forests located in Zamfara, Sokoto and Kaduna states.

The offence is said to be contrary to Section 17 of the Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act 2013 and punishable under the same section of the Act.

The judge fixed February 24 for the continuation of the trial.