Nigerian Army troops have reportedly killed a significant number of armed bandits in operations targeting camps linked to the notorious kingpin Bello Turji in Zamfara State and Sokoto State.
The coordinated missions focused on hideouts located in Fakai community, as well as Shinkafi and Isa Local Government Areas.
According to a military source who requested anonymity, the success of the operations came during intense gunfights, which formed part of a larger effort by the Nigerian Army to curb rising banditry in the region.
The operation was spearheaded by the 8 Division Strike Force of the Nigerian Army in Sokoto and began in the early hours of March 20.
Troops advanced deep into Turji’s camp within the Kagara Forest, which is known for its dense vegetation and challenging terrain.
The military source explained that the advance was initially slowed when two combat support vehicles developed mechanical issues near Maberaya village in Isa Local Government Area.
The temporary halt, however, did not prevent the troops from engaging the bandits effectively once movement resumed.
During the operation, heavily armed bandits mounted an ambush using high grounds and the forested landscape for cover.
This engagement forms part of ongoing efforts by security agencies to dismantle criminal networks operating in northern Nigeria, which have been responsible for frequent attacks on communities and law enforcement personnel.
In addition to the direct combat operation, authorities addressed circulating reports suggesting that over 150 bandits had drowned in a boat accident in the Sabon Gida area of Sokoto State.
The military source categorically dismissed the claims as false, clarifying that no such incident occurred.
The clarification aimed to prevent misinformation and maintain public confidence in the ongoing security operations in the region.
It also underlined the importance of accurate reporting in areas where military actions and criminal activities are closely monitored by local communities and the media.
– Additional information from Tribune
