In a decisive blow to Zamfara’s banditry crisis, the notorious bandit leader Bello Turji is on the run following a military assault on his stronghold in Fakai, Shinkafi Local Government Area. The operation, led by combined air and ground forces under Operation Fansan Yanma, dismantled Turji’s hideouts, neutralized dozens of his fighters, and claimed the life of his son.
The offensive also targeted key camps in Sabon Birni, including Zangon Dan Gwandi, Zangon Tsaika, and Zangon Kagara, where a school allegedly storing food and weapons was razed to cripple Turji’s network.
Military sources confirmed significant casualties. “We killed his son and many fighters during the operation. Turji’s frantic calls for reinforcements from other bandit leaders were ignored. His network is crumbling,” said an intelligence officer.
Reports reveal Turji narrowly escaped after losing high-ranking lieutenants. Some fighters fled to Mangwarorin Gebe with stolen livestock, while others remain trapped under the military’s siege along key escape routes.
Supported by elite troops from Operation Hadarin Daji and the Navy’s Special Boat Service, the offensive is one of the most strategic in recent years. Proactive intelligence and precise airstrikes by the Nigerian Air Force have significantly weakened Turji’s operational capabilities.
“This is a sustained effort to dismantle criminal networks. Bello Turji’s impunity is ending,” a military spokesperson declared.
As troops tighten the noose, Turji’s era of terror in Zamfara appears to be nearing its end.
Source:@ZagazOlaMakama
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