Bello Turji’s Son Killed in Major Military Operation Against Bandits in Zamfara
In a significant blow to notorious bandit leader Bello Turji, the Nigerian military forces under Operation Fansan Yanma have reportedly dismantled his strongholds in Zamfara State, forcing him to flee. The operation, which involved both ground and air forces, focused on Turji’s key hideouts in Fakai, located in the Shinkafi Local Government Area, a region considered his stronghold.
Following a series of coordinated military strikes targeting multiple bandit camps, including Zangon Dan Gwandi, Zangon Tsaika, and Zangon Kagara in the Sabon Birni Local Government Area, the forces successfully destroyed key locations used by Turji’s group. Among the sites targeted was a school, which was allegedly being used by Turji to store food and weapons. The military forces set the school ablaze to prevent it from serving as a supply base for Turji’s network.
Losses for Turji’s Group
Reports indicate significant casualties for Turji’s group, with intelligence sources confirming the death of Turji’s son during the operation. Several of Turji’s lieutenants, high-ranking associates, and possibly family members were also reportedly killed. Additionally, four of his fighters were injured in earlier engagements, while others have reportedly retreated to Mangwarorin Gebe, where they are said to be hiding stolen livestock and valuables.
Sources further revealed that Turji, in a desperate attempt to salvage his position, pleaded for reinforcements from seven other bandit leaders. However, no reinforcements arrived, and one of his spies narrowly escaped, signaling a major setback for the bandit leader.
Strategic Military Action
The operation, described as one of the most decisive actions against Turji’s group in recent times, is being led by special forces and supported by the Navy’s Special Boat Service (SBS), highlighting the strategic nature of the mission. An intelligence official emphasized the military’s commitment to eradicating the impunity of bandit groups operating in the region, stating, “This is a sustained effort to dismantle their networks entirely.”
Despite the scale of the operation, efforts to confirm the details from the Nigerian military on Sunday were unsuccessful. Phone calls to the spokesperson for the Nigerian Army, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, went unanswered, leaving the military’s official confirmation pending.
