Troops of the Nigerian Army have successfully neutralised a significant number of armed bandits operating in camps linked to notorious kingpin Bello Turji.
The military carried out the operation in Fakai community within Shinkafi and Isa Local Government Areas across Zamfara and Sokoto states. The operation, led by the 8 Division Strike Force of the Nigerian Army Sokoto, began in the early hours of March 20, targeting Turji’s camp deep inside Kagara Forest.
During the advance, two combat support vehicles experienced mechanical issues near Maberaya village in Isa LGA, temporarily halting troop movements. Bandits then attempted an ambush from high grounds and dense forest cover.
The troops responded swiftly with superior firepower, successfully engaging the bandits and eliminating several. Three soldiers and one personnel of the Department of State Services sustained injuries but were promptly evacuated to the 8 Division Military Hospital in Sokoto for treatment.
Reports that over 150 bandits drowned in a river in Sabon Gida area were confirmed to be false. The area is not navigable, and the incident did not occur.
