The battle between the Nigerian military and notorious bandit kingpin Bello Turji has taken a dramatic turn, with top commanders in Turji’s camp reported dead after a daring operation by Nigerian troops in Zamfara State.
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, confirmed the major blow to Turji’s criminal network during a press briefing on Friday at the closing of the CDS Joint Task Force Commander Conference in Abuja. The operation, which took place on Thursday night, has reportedly left Turji scrambling to save himself, as the military intensifies its push into the heart of his operations.
According to General Musa, two key commanders within Turji’s faction—Kachalla Gwammade and Kachalla Shehu—were killed during the ambush. The military operation was a part of ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Armed Forces to stamp out terrorism and banditry in the North-West, particularly in Zamfara, a state that has long been plagued by violent criminal syndicates.
“In a follow-up operation, troops advanced into Tufan and Mashima villages, dislodging armed groups and pushing them deeper into the forests,” said General Musa, highlighting the military’s relentless offensive. “This has created confusion among the bandits, with Turji himself now in a desperate race for escape as his camp collapses.”
The military’s efforts in Zamfara are part of a broader strategy to bring an end to banditry and terrorism in the region. These criminal groups, led by figures like Bello Turji, have terrorized local communities for years, engaging in kidnappings, killings, and other forms of violence. The recent strike on Turji’s camp signifies a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s fight against the rising tide of insecurity.
In what appears to be a symbolic move to further disrupt the bandits, the military also launched a precision strike against previously-cleared areas in the heart of Turji’s stronghold. This offensive, which targeted the remaining portions of his camp, is being seen as a decisive effort to ensure that Turji’s presence in Zamfara is completely wiped out.
“Reports from our sources indicate that Turji and his close ally, Sani Black, have been spotted in the area, now desperately searching for escape routes as the pressure mounts from our forces,” General Musa revealed, emphasizing the effectiveness of the military’s strategy.
The events in Zamfara come amid growing concerns about the resilience of criminal gangs across northern Nigeria. As the bandits grow more desperate, the military’s intensified approach aims to send a clear message that impunity will no longer be tolerated.
General Musa took the opportunity to reassure Nigerians of the military’s commitment to eliminating all terrorist factions across the country. “We are determined to neutralize these groups and restore peace to the people of Zamfara and beyond. This operation is just the beginning,” he declared firmly.
The death of Gwammade and Shehu has been widely celebrated by local communities who have long suffered under the reign of Turji and his bandits. Many residents have expressed hope that these significant military successes could signal the end of the lawlessness that has plagued their towns and villages.
The security situation in Zamfara remains critical, with the military continuing its operations in the state. Despite the successes, analysts warn that the fight against banditry is far from over. Experts point out that while the military has made significant strides, the complex network of banditry across northern Nigeria requires sustained efforts to dismantle.
Local residents and experts have echoed the calls for a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of banditry, including poverty, lack of education, and the availability of small arms. While the military’s offensive is vital, they stress that long-term peace will require more than just military action.
As Turji’s camp crumbles and his forces scatter, questions remain about what the future holds for northern Nigeria. Will these gains be sustained, or will the bandits regroup and return to wreak havoc on the region? Only time will tell, but for now, the Nigerian military has sent a powerful message: The era of impunity for bandits is over.
