Turji in Disarray as Military Strikes Destroy Camps, Kill Son in Zamfara

Nigerian troops have intensified their offensive against notorious bandit leader Bello Turji, dismantling his key hideouts in Fakai, Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State. The latest military operations, which targeted multiple camps, have left Turji’s network severely weakened.

Counterterrorism expert Zagazola Makama, who shared the development on his X account, reported that the coordinated strikes followed previous missions that successfully destroyed several bandit camps in Sabon Birni Local Government Area. Among the targeted sites were Zangon Dan Gwandi, Zangon Tsaika, and Zangon Kagara, as well as a school allegedly used by Turji for storing food and weapons. The military set the school ablaze to prevent it from serving as a supply hub for his group.

According to intelligence sources, Turji’s fighters suffered heavy casualties, including his son. Reports indicate that Turji, in distress, made desperate calls for reinforcements from seven other bandit leaders, but none responded. One of his spies narrowly escaped the military’s operation.

Several of Turji’s close associates, including high-profile lieutenants, were killed in the strikes, while some of his fighters sustained injuries. Reports suggest that those who survived have fled to Mangwarorin Gebe, allegedly hiding stolen livestock and valuables.