I Can Tell You, Every Week, You'll Have Bus Filled With Bandits Going To Ilesha Mining Centre-Kurfi

Dr. Bashir Kurfi, Convener of the Katsina Community Security Initiative, has alleged that armed bandits move freely across parts of Nigeria, linking the ease of their movement to broader security concerns following discussions about banditry and the recent school kidnapping in Oyo State.

Kurfi made the claim during an interview on Trust TV, on Wednesday, 24 June, 2026, while commenting on the spread of criminal activities beyond the North-West. 

He argued that insecurity should not be viewed as a problem affecting only one region, warning that the mobility of armed groups poses a threat to communities across the country.

Speaking during the interview, Kurfi said, "I can tell you, from most of our towns, every week. You will have a bus filled with mostly bandits going to Ilesha where they have mining Centre there." 

He suggested that the alleged movement of suspected bandits to mining locations highlights the need for stronger surveillance and intelligence gathering along major transport routes.

According to Kurfi, criminal groups have developed networks that enable them to operate across state boundaries, making it more difficult for security agencies to contain their activities. 

He stressed that authorities should pay greater attention to illegal mining sites and other locations that could serve as meeting points or sources of funding for armed groups.

The security advocate called for improved coordination among federal and state security agencies, as well as closer collaboration with local communities, to identify suspicious movements and disrupt criminal operations before they result in attacks or kidnappings.