Defence Headquarters ‘Threatens’ To Publicize Names And Photos Of Wanted Terrorist And Bandit Leaders

Defence Headquarters ‘Threatens’ To Publicize Names And Photos Of Wanted Terrorist And Bandit Leaders

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) is reportedly gearing up to unveil the identities and images of a new batch of wanted terrorist and bandit leaders on its wanted list…..READ ALSO Defence Headquarters Reacts To Video Of Soldiers In Dialogue With Bandits In Katsina

This latest move comes in the wake of the elimination of prominent terrorists and bandit leaders previously on the military’s radar, and the emergence of a fresh crop of leaders.

Back in November 2022, the DHQ declared 19 bandit leaders wanted, offering a reward of N5 million for each. This initiative aimed to incentivize Nigerians to provide valuable information leading to their arrest.

Among the notable figures declared wanted were Bello Turji from Fakai village, Zamfara State; Ali Kachalla, also known as Ali Kawaje, from Kuyambara village in Danaadau Maru LG of Zamfara State; Ado Aliero, from Yankuzo village in the Tsafe LGA, Zamfara State; and Halilu Sububu from Sububu village in the Maradun LGA, Zamfara State, among others.

A recent report from a source claimed that the military is in the process of releasing a new list of wanted terrorists, including their photographs.

According to the source, compilation of the list is underway, and Nigerians will soon be urged to cooperate in neutralizing these individuals.

The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, when contacted, confirmed that work on the new list is ongoing and assured that it would be made public soon.

The military has achieved significant success in eliminating numerous terrorist and bandit leaders across various theatres of operation. Notably, Boderi, a notorious bandit kingpin allegedly responsible for orchestrating several high-profile kidnappings, was reportedly killed in February 2024. Additionally, in February 2024, troops neutralized 10 terrorist kingpins, including Ashiru, Kachambi, and Bangis, among others.

The DHQ’s efforts to curb terrorism and banditry continue, with successful operations resulting in the elimination of key figures like Dogo Gudali in July 2023 and Alhaji Shadari in January 2023.