Nigerian ground and air troops under Operation Fansan Yanma have intensified their offensive against notorious bandit leader Bello Turji, dismantling his key hideouts in Fakai, a stronghold in Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
Military strikes targeted multiple camps, including Zangon Dan Gwandi, Zangon Tsaika, Zangon Kagara, and a school reportedly used by Turji to store foodstuffs and weapons.
Security expert Zagazola Makama confirmed that the school was destroyed to prevent it from serving as a supply base for Turji’s network.
Intelligence sources revealed that Turji’s group had suffered significant losses, including the death of his son and several high-profile lieutenants during the operation.
“Turji was heard calling for reinforcements from seven other bandit leaders, but none responded, and one of his spies narrowly escaped,” the sources added.
The operation, led by elite troops from Operation Hadarin Daji and supported by Navy Special Boat Service personnel, has been described as one of the most strategic campaigns against banditry.
Proactive intelligence sharing was said to have enabled precise airstrikes by the Nigerian Air Force, dismantling critical hideouts and undermining Turji’s operational capabilities.
Further reports indicate that four of Turji’s fighters were injured, while others fled to Mangwarorin Gebe, allegedly hiding stolen livestock and valuables.
Turji himself was last sighted at Zangon Gebe, where he remains surrounded by heavily armed fighters.
