Troops of the Nigerian Army have recorded significant gains in the fight against banditry, killing several armed fighters during coordinated offensives targeting hideouts linked to notorious kingpin Bello Turji in Zamfara State and Sokoto State.
The operations focused on camps located around Fakai community, spanning Shinkafi and Isa Local Government Areas, as part of intensified efforts to dismantle criminal networks in the North-West.
According to a military source, the offensive led by the 8 Division Strike Force commenced in the early hours of March 20, with troops advancing into Turji’s stronghold deep within the Kagara Forest.
The mission, however, encountered a temporary setback when two combat support vehicles developed mechanical faults near Maberaya village in Isa LGA, forcing a brief halt in movement.
During this pause, heavily armed bandits launched an ambush from elevated and forested positions. Troops responded swiftly with superior firepower, engaging the attackers in a fierce exchange that resulted in the elimination of several bandits.
“Three soldiers and one personnel of the Department of State Services (DSS) sustained injuries during the skirmish and were promptly evacuated to the 8 Division Military Hospital, Sokoto, for treatment,” the source added.
Meanwhile, security authorities have debunked claims that more than 150 bandits drowned in a boat accident in Sabon Gida, Sokoto State.
“The news circulating that over 150 bandits drowned in a boat mishap in the Sabon Gida area is a fake report,” the source said.
The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) Area Manager in Sokoto, Mr Bello Bala, also confirmed the report as false, noting that the river in the area is currently not navigable.
Elsewhere, concerns over insecurity persist in Kwara State, where the Kwara South Security Joint Watch criticised what it described as a slow response by leaders to threats in the region.
This follows a recent attack on an ECWA church in Omugo community, where eight worshippers were abducted. Three victims were later rescued.
Coordinator of the group, Olaitan Zubairu, expressed frustration over the lack of timely action despite prior warnings.
Amid ongoing operations, Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu, reiterated his commitment to prioritising the welfare and morale of troops as a key strategy in tackling insecurity.
Speaking during an Eid-el-Fitr luncheon with soldiers at a Forward Operating Base in Lagos, he emphasised that the strength of the Army lies in the well-being and confidence of its personnel.
He also honoured fallen soldiers and appreciated the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stressing the importance of unity and collaboration among security agencies.
The latest military operations highlight ongoing efforts to weaken bandit networks in Nigeria’s North-West, even as challenges persist across other regions. While tactical gains continue, security experts say sustained coordination and proactive leadership remain critical to restoring lasting peace nationwide.
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