Nigerian Army Kills Top Bandit Lieutenant Kallamu in Sokoto Operation

Troops of the 8 Division of the Nigerian Army have killed Kachalla Kallamu, a top lieutenant of the notorious bandit leader Bello Turji, in a coordinated operation in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

A senior military official confirmed the development on Tuesday, describing the operation as a significant setback for the Turji network. Kallamu was killed alongside one of Turji’s key logistics suppliers during a dawn offensive near Kurawa village on Monday, with support from local vigilante groups.

The source said Kallamu had been under surveillance for months, and his death is expected to weaken bandit activities in Sabon Birni and nearby communities. Originally from Garin-Idi in Sabon Birni, Kallamu had terrorized residents for years and was believed to have fled to Kogi State following a military operation in June 2025, before returning to Sokoto.

The military credited local communities for providing crucial intelligence that contributed to the operation’s success. Residents of Sabon Birni have reportedly celebrated the news, while Col. Ahmed Usman (Rtd.), Special Adviser to Governor Ahmad Aliyu on Security Matters, commended the troops for their “sustained determination and professionalism” in combating banditry.