Reports indicate that notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji has fled to the Maradun Local Government Area (LGA) of Zamfara State, narrowly escaping the ongoing military offensive against bandit groups in Northwest Nigeria.
Local sources said that Turji’s loyalists were sighted moving on motorcycles late Sunday evening and early Monday morning, reportedly transporting wounded gang members.
The fleeing bandits were seen traversing through the areas of Galadi, Damaga, Rudunu, and Danbenchi before heading towards Garsa/Kadanya in the Bayan Ruwa axis.
There are also indications that bandits are regrouping in Rudunu, Bankamawa, and Farfaru, all located within the Faru District, which is known for its armed criminal activities.
The Bayan Ruwa axis has emerged as a strategic route for terrorists in Zamfara, where the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) conducted airstrikes on terrorist hideouts in August 2024.
Further intelligence suggests that some of Turji’s foot soldiers may have taken refuge in Garsa/Kadanya, reportedly under the protection of Jummo Smally, a former rival who has now allied with Turji. The motives behind this unexpected alliance, however, remain unclear.
When reached for comment, a defence intelligence source confirmed Turji’s flight to the Maradun area but emphasized that security forces are closely monitoring their movements before launching an attack. The source underscored the importance of caution to prevent civilian casualties, as Turji may be traveling with women, children, or captives.
“Yes, Turji and a few of his lieutenants managed to evade our bombardment. We have observed occasional movements of these individuals, accompanied by vulnerable groups such as women, children, and the elderly, who may also include kidnapped victims.
“We are meticulously tracking their movements to assess the identities of those accompanying them, in order to minimize the risk of collateral damage.
“I can assure you, however, that their days are numbered; they have no safe haven left to threaten the peace of the affected communities.”
Source: By PRNigeria.