Nigeria’s security agencies have dealt a heavy blow to banditry and terrorism in the North West by killing Kachalla Yellow Danbokolo, a top commander in the feared Turji terror network.
The Department of State Services (DSS) and the joint HYBRID Forces carried out a carefully planned operation on June 23 in the Chida general area of Fakai District, Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State. The raid led to the death of Danbokolo and at least 25 other fighters, with several terrorist camps destroyed.
Danbokolo, known as Turji’s main field commander and executioner, fought back fiercely during the attack. He was seriously wounded in the abdomen and lower chest during the firefight. Despite being rushed to Kamarawa village in Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State, he died from his injuries on June 26.
Locals and security sources have confirmed his death through intercepted messages and eyewitness reports. This marks a major turning point in efforts to curb insurgency in Zamfara and neighbouring states.
For more than five years, Danbokolo controlled forest enclaves across Zamfara, Sokoto, and Katsina states. He was notorious for extorting farmers, enforcing illegal taxes, and leading deadly attacks against civilians and security forces. His deep knowledge of the terrain made him a key figure in the Turji network.
A security expert said, “Taking Danbokolo out is like removing the engine from a moving truck. It will slow down the bandits significantly.”
The operation was not without losses. Turji himself led a counter-attack with over 100 fighters, killing 13 security operatives, including 10 HYBRID Forces members and three private collaborators. Twenty-three others were wounded.
Despite the sacrifices, people in Zamfara, Sokoto, and Katsina are celebrating the news of Danbokolo’s death. Many say it brings hope for peace and security after years of terror.
The DSS has remained quiet publicly but described the mission as a “major success” that will weaken the Turji group’s ability to carry out attacks in the region.
The killing of Danbokolo is both a symbolic and strategic win in Nigeria’s ongoing fight to restore peace in the troubled North West.
