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The Federal Government has arraigned five individuals accused of aiding the infamous terrorist kingpin Bello Turji.
The suspects, identified as Musa Kamarawa, Abubakar Hashimu (alias Doctor), Bashir Abdullahi, Samuel Chinedu, and Lucky Chukwuma, are facing trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja before Justice Emeka Nwite.
The arraignment follows a delay last week due to the absence of legal representation.
Prosecution counsel David Kaswe, representing the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), had requested an adjournment to allow the defendants to secure lawyers. Justice Nwite subsequently rescheduled the case for today.
The suspects are charged with an 11-count indictment that includes providing material support to terrorists in Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kaduna States.
“These individuals are accused of delivering illicit drugs, military uniforms, and other essential supplies to terrorist camps,” stated M.B. Abubakar, Director of Public Prosecutions.
The charges also allege the acquisition of a military-grade gun truck worth ₦28.5 million from Libya, allegedly delivered to Kachalla Halilu, another terrorist leader.
Further accusations include providing medical care and shelter to Bello Turji after an attack in Tungar Kolo Village, Zamfara. Three additional suspects, including Bello Turji, remain at large.
The prosecution argues these acts violate sections of the Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act 2013, specifically Sections 17, 18(a), and 8(1)(b), which criminalize aiding terrorism and supporting terrorists.
The trial promises to shed light on the operations of terrorist networks and the role of local collaborators in fuelling insecurity.