The Department of State Services (DSS) has rearrested Bello Turji, a terrorist fugitive who escaped from the Kuje Correctional Facility in Abuja during the July 2022 jailbreak — a high-profile incident that saw hundreds of inmates, including dozens of Boko Haram suspects, break free after the prison was attacked with explosives and firearms by Islamist militants.
According to DSS sources, Turji was apprehended in a covert operation conducted in northern Nigeria, three years after his dramatic escape from the maximum-security prison. “This arrest is the result of sustained intelligence efforts and collaboration between security agencies,” a senior DSS officer stated, emphasizing the importance of inter-agency cooperation in apprehending high-risk fugitives.
The July 2022 Kuje prison break led to 879 inmates fleeing custody, including 64 terrorists with links to Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). Explosions rocked the facility and gunfire echoed as militants forced their way in, killing at least one guard and freeing their incarcerated co-conspirators. At the time, Umar Abubakar, spokesman for the Nigerian Correctional Service, said, “Officials will track all fleeing inmates and return them to custody.” President Muhammadu Buhari visited the stricken prison following the attack and expressed his disappointment at security failures, stating, “How can terrorists organize, have weapons, attack a security installation and get away with it?”
DSS had warned of potential threats to major prisons prior to the attack, reportedly providing 44 security alerts about vulnerabilities at Kuje. Despite these, terrorists succeeded in executing one of Nigeria’s most daring escapes. The aftermath involved nationwide manhunts, with helicopters scouring bushland and security operatives working tirelessly to recapture escapees. Many high-profile fugitives remained at large, undermining public trust in Nigeria’s correctional and justice systems.
The recapture of Turji is seen as a major breakthrough. DSS spokesperson described the operation as “a testament to the service’s resolve to ensure justice and national security.” He added, “We appeal to those still at large to voluntarily return or face the full consequences of evading justice.”
Turji is now expected to face new terrorism-related charges stemming from his prison escape and prior activities. The DSS continues to pursue leads on other escapees, with efforts ongoing to restore confidence in Nigeria’s ability to secure its correctional facilities against radical groups.
Security analysts emphasize that the arrest sends a strong message to those who pose threats to public safety. “This is a win for the rule of law and for citizens who have endured years of fear,” one analyst said.
The DSS urges the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities to ensure fugitives are brought to justice. The restoration of accountability and order remains a top priority for Nigeria’s security organs.
