Nigerian Army Launches Major Offensive Against Bello Turji's Bandit Camps
In a significant escalation of counter-banditry efforts, Nigerian Army troops have conducted coordinated strikes on hideouts associated with infamous bandit leader Bello Turji, resulting in the elimination of numerous militants across Zamfara and Sokoto states. Military sources confirm that the operations targeted camps situated in the Fakai community within Shinkafi Local Council of Zamfara and Isa Local Council of Sokoto, marking a robust response to the persistent insecurity plaguing the North-West region.
Intense Gun Battle and Strategic Ambush
The offensive, spearheaded by the 8 Division Strike Force based in Sokoto, commenced in the early hours of March 20, with forces advancing deep into the Kagara Forest to dismantle Turji's strongholds. However, the mission encountered a temporary setback when two combat support vehicles experienced mechanical failures near Maberaya village in Sokoto's Isa Local Council, halting the troops' progression momentarily.
Seizing this opportunity, heavily armed bandits from Turji's camp launched a calculated ambush, leveraging elevated terrain and dense forest cover to mount their attack. The troops, demonstrating resilience and tactical superiority, swiftly countered with overwhelming firepower, engaging the assailants in a fierce exchange that led to the neutralization of several bandits. Despite the success, the confrontation resulted in injuries to three soldiers and one Department of State Services (DSS) personnel, who were promptly evacuated to the 8 Division Military Hospital in Sokoto for urgent medical treatment.
Dismissal of False Reports and Broader Security Concerns
In related developments, military authorities have categorically refuted circulating claims that over 150 bandits perished in a boat accident within the Sabon Gida area of Sokoto State. A source emphasized that this narrative is entirely fabricated, with Mr. Bello Bala, the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) Area Manager in Sokoto, corroborating that the River Sabon Gida is currently non-navigable, thereby debunking the alleged incident.
Meanwhile, security tensions have escalated in other regions, as highlighted by the Kwara South Security Joint Watch, which issued a stern rebuke against local leaders for their perceived indifference to rising insecurity. The body had raised a threat alert just hours before an armed attack on the ECWA church in Omugo via Oro-Ago community, Ifelodun council area, where eight worshippers, including the wife of the church head, were abducted. Although three victims were subsequently rescued, the coordinator, Olaitan Zubairu, expressed profound frustration over the failure to act on early warnings, underscoring the critical need for proactive leadership in combating banditry.
Army Leadership Emphasizes Troop Welfare and National Unity
Amid these operations, Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant-General Waidi Shaibu has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the welfare of military personnel, declaring it a cornerstone of his command philosophy in addressing nationwide insecurity. Speaking during an Eid-el-Fitr luncheon at the Forward Operating Base in Epe, Lagos, Shaibu stressed that the efficacy of the Army hinges on the well-being, morale, and confidence of its members, pledging to enhance living conditions, professional development, and family support systems to ensure dignity and care for all.
Reflecting on the concurrent observance of Ramadan and the Christian Lenten season, Shaibu highlighted the Nigerian Army's unity and shared purpose in safeguarding the nation. He paid tribute to fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice and extended gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his steadfast support. Emphasizing the imperative of collective responsibility, Shaibu called for sustained synergy among security agencies to bolster operational successes and restore peace across the country.
In a separate address in Jos, Shaibu commended officers and troops of the 3 Armoured Division Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) for their dedication to peace restoration, also lauding Major-General Folusho Oyinlola, the General Officer Commanding of 3 Division, for exemplary leadership. These statements underscore a holistic approach combining aggressive military action with strategic welfare initiatives to combat banditry effectively.
