The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, has vowed to ensure that the notorious terrorist and bandit leader, Bello Turji, is captured soon.

“Turji’s capture is imminent,” Mr Musa said while briefing journalists on the military operations across the country on Tuesday in Abuja. “We are going to get him and I can assure you within the shortest possible time, we are going to address that issue.”

On the alleged imposition of levy on communities by the terrorist kingpin, the CDS said the military was working with other security agencies and the state government to provide adequate protection for the citizens.

He called on the communities to support the military and other security agencies to protect them, adding that the cooperation of the people remained vital to defeating the adversaries.

“On the issue of Turji, like I said, it is just a deranged individual that feels power, but I can bet you that it is just a matter of time.

“That is why we all must come together to work with members of the armed forces and security agencies to deny them the ability to move freely within our communities.

“Please do not give them any support. Do not give them information on the movement of troops because this is what is really happening,” said the CDS.

Mr Musa said insecurity had persisted in communities because the bandits were informed about the military’s operations.

“You are dealing with non-state actors that are not wearing uniforms; you don’t know them, but they know you.

“And within the communities, if you don’t have the support of the community, it makes it extremely very difficult,” he said.

Mr Musa assured Nigerians that the armed forces would continue to lead other security agencies to leverage their strengths to move further to rid the country of security threats.

“Our intention is to make sure that life returns to normalcy in Nigeria. It is a work for all of us together, including members of the press,” he added.

(NAN)