Troops Kill Bandits In Turji’s Camp, Repel Ambush In Zamfara–Sokoto

Troops of the Nigerian Army have neutralised several armed bandits during an operation targeting the camp of notorious bandit kingpin, Bello Turji, in parts of Zamfara and Sokoto states.

The operation was carried out in Fakai community spanning Shinkafi and Isa Local Government Areas, as part of ongoing military offensives against banditry in the region.

A security source who spoke with Vanguard on condition of anonymity, said the mission was led by the 8 Division Strike Force of the Nigerian Army, Sokoto, and commenced in the early hours of March 20.

The troops reportedly advanced into Kagara Forest, where Turji’s camp is located.

The source disclosed that the troops encountered a temporary setback when two combat support vehicles developed mechanical faults near Maberaya village in Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

During the halt, armed bandits launched an ambush, taking advantage of the terrain.

“However, the troops swiftly responded with superior firepower, engaging the bandits and eliminating several of them in the encounter,” the source said.

He added that three soldiers and one operative of the Department of State Services sustained injuries during the clash and were evacuated to the 8 Division Military Hospital in Sokoto for treatment.

The source also debunked reports claiming that about 150 bandits drowned in a boat accident in the Sabon Gida area of Sokoto State.

“The news circulating that over 150 bandits drowned in a boat mishap in the Sabon Gida area is a fake report,” he said.

Similarly, the Area Manager of the National Inland Waterways Authority in Sokoto, Bello Bala, confirmed that the report was false.

He noted that the River Sabon Gida area is currently not navigable, further discrediting claims of any boat mishap in the location.