Troops of the Nigerian Army have neutralised several armed bandits during a gun battle with elements linked to notorious bandit leader Bello Turji while conducting an offensive operation in Zamfara State.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the operation was carried out on March 20, 2026, by the 8 Division Strike Force as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating in the North-West.
The operation, which commenced at about 6:00 a.m., targeted Turji’s hideout located deep within Kagara Forest in Fakai, Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State...READ FULL; FROM THE SOURCE.
During the advance, two combat support vehicles reportedly developed mechanical faults near Maberaya village in Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State, forcing a temporary pause in troop movement.
At that point, armed bandits believed to be members of Turji’s faction launched an ambush, taking advantage of elevated terrain and surrounding forest cover.
The troops responded with superior firepower, engaging the attackers in a sustained exchange that resulted in the neutralisation of several bandits.
Three soldiers and one operative of the Department of State Services (DSS) sustained injuries during the encounter and were evacuated to the 8 Division Military Hospital for treatment.
Reinforcement units drawn from Forward Operating Bases in Isa and Shinkafi later joined the operation, enabling troops to consolidate their position and secure the area.
Military sources said the offensive forms part of broader coordinated operations aimed at degrading bandit networks, denying them freedom of movement, and restoring security across affected communities in the region.
