Nigerian Army Neutralizes Dozens in High-Stakes Offensive Against Notorious Bandit Kingpin Bello Turji

Nigerian Army troops neutralize dozens of bandits in Bello Turji’s camp during a fierce battle in Zamfara and Sokoto's Kagara Forest.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 23, 2026, 5:36 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from NewsDiary Online

Strategic Incursion Into Kagara Forest Targets Central Bandit Command

Troops of the Nigerian Army have recorded a significant victory in the ongoing war against domestic terrorism, neutralizing dozens of armed bandits within the camp of the notorious kingpin, Bello Turji. The operation, conducted by the 8 Division Strike Force based in Sokoto, focused on the Fakai community and the dense Kagara Forest, which spans the Shinkafi and Isa Local Government Areas of Zamfara and Sokoto States. Commencing in the early hours of March 20, 2026, the offensive was designed to disrupt the command and control structure of Turji’s network, which has long terrorized the North-West region.

Ambush Response and Tactical Firepower Superiority in Maberaya

The mission encountered a critical complication when two combat support vehicles developed mechanical faults near Maberaya village in Sokoto State. As the movement temporarily halted to address the technical issues, heavily armed bandits from Turji’s camp launched a coordinated ambush from the surrounding high grounds and forested cover. However, the military source confirmed that the troops maintained discipline and swiftly retaliated with superior firepower. The ensuing fierce gun battle resulted in the elimination of a significant number of bandits, forcing the remaining insurgents to retreat further into the wilderness.

Casualties and Medical Evacuation of Security Personnel

During the skirmish, three soldiers and one operative from the Department of State Services (DSS) sustained varying degrees of injuries. The wounded personnel were promptly evacuated from the battlefield and transported to the 8 Division Military Hospital in Sokoto for specialized medical treatment. Reports indicate that their conditions are stable, and the successful evacuation underscores the army's prioritized commitment to the welfare of its strike personnel during high-risk rural deployments.