Notorious bandit leader Bello Turji has reportedly released all captives held by his group.
This comes amid intensified military operations aimed at apprehending the fugitive and dismantling his network in Zamfara State and neighboring regions.
Sources informed Zagazola Makama that Turji’s decision to free the hostages is a response to mounting pressure from the Nigerian Armed Forces under Operation Hadarin Daji and Operation Forest Sanity.
Recent airstrikes and ground offensives targeting his strongholds in Fakai, Shinkafi, and nearby areas have severely weakened his group, forcing them to retreat.
Observers believe the release of the captives is a calculated move by Turji to de-escalate tensions and avoid a direct confrontation with advancing security forces. Meanwhile, troops have reaffirmed their resolve to capture him, dead or alive.
