Zamfara community reportedly pays ₦50m in ransom to Bello Turji [Photo]

In a recent incident, the residents of Yan Buki community in Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State reportedly paid ₦50 million in ransom to notorious bandit leader Bello Turji. This payment, disclosed on Thursday by conflict reporter D English Alhaji on Facebook, was allegedly made to secure the release of abductees and settle tax levies imposed by Turji on the community.

Alhaji questioned the continuation of such practices, stating, "How long must we continue living like this?" The payment underscores the persistent issue of banditry in Zamfara State, where rural communities have endured attacks, kidnappings, and demands for ransom and levies from armed groups. The insecurity in Zurmi and other parts of Zamfara has led to residents in various communities being forced to negotiate with armed groups to ensure the release of those abducted or to prevent further attacks.