Notorious bandit leader Bello Turji claims responsibility for deadly attack on troops in Sokoto

Notorious bandit leader Bello Turji has claimed responsibility for a deadly attack on security operatives in Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State, following an explosion that reportedly killed soldiers and injured several others.

The incident occurred when an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) detonated on a military vehicle conveying troops to Bargaja community, where security personnel were responding to a distress call after a bandit attack on the village.

According to local sources, at least two soldiers were killed while several others sustained injuries in the explosion.

Residents said armed bandits invaded the community between 12:30 a.m. and 3:00 a.m. on Saturday, firing sporadically and forcing residents to seek military intervention.

A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, alleged that the attackers planted the explosive device along the Isa–Bargaja Road before the arrival of the troops.

In a video released after the attack, Turji claimed responsibility and expressed satisfaction over the reported casualties.

The bandit kingpin alleged that the operation was carried out against security forces and local vigilantes whom he accused of rustling livestock and targeting his associates in parts of Sokoto and Zamfara states.

> “Allah has granted us victory over those who have been rustling our livestock and killing our innocent brothers,” Turji said in the video.



He further claimed that his group killed some of those involved in operations against them and recovered livestock allegedly seized during previous confrontations.

The attack underscores the persistent security challenges facing communities in northwestern Nigeria, where armed bandit groups continue to launch assaults on villages, security formations and travellers despite ongoing military operations.

Security authorities have yet to issue a detailed official statement on the incident or Turji’s claims.

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