Troops of the Nigerian Army have neutralised several bandits in camps linked to notorious kingpin Bello Turji during coordinated operations across Zamfara State and Sokoto State.
The offensive targeted hideouts in Fakai, spanning Shinkafi and Isa local government areas, where troops engaged armed groups in a fierce battle as part of ongoing efforts to curb banditry in the North West. The operation, led by the 8 Division Strike Force, began in the early hours of March 20, with soldiers advancing into forested camps believed to be strongholds of Turji’s network.
During the advance, movement was briefly disrupted after two combat support vehicles developed mechanical issues near Maberaya village in Isa. The pause exposed troops to an ambush by heavily armed bandits who attacked from elevated positions within the forest. However, the soldiers responded with superior firepower, killing several attackers and forcing others to retreat.
A military source confirmed that three soldiers and one operative of the Department of State Services sustained injuries and were evacuated to a military hospital in Sokoto for treatment.
Authorities have also debunked reports claiming that more than 150 bandits died in a boat accident in the Sabon Gida area of Sokoto, describing the story as false. The National Inland Waterways Authority noted that the river in question is not navigable, further discrediting the claim.
In a related development, concerns over insecurity have intensified in Kwara State, where the Kwara South Security Joint Watch criticised local leaders over what it described as a weak response to rising threats. The group issued a warning shortly before an attack on an ECWA church in Omugo via Oro Ago in Ifelodun local government area, where eight worshippers were abducted. Three of the victims were later rescued.
Meanwhile, the Chief of Army Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed the military’s commitment to prioritising troop welfare as a key strategy in tackling insecurity. Speaking during an Eid celebration with soldiers in Lagos, he stressed that morale, welfare, and unity remain critical to operational success.
He also paid tribute to fallen personnel and commended troops across various operations, including those involved in restoring peace in conflict affected regions, while emphasising continued collaboration among security agencies to strengthen national defence efforts.
