The Chairman of Isa Local Government Area in Sokoto State, Sharehu Abubakar Kamarawa, has praised Nigerian troops for recent successes against bandits linked to notorious leader Bello Turji.
The commendation follows a military operation targeting Turji’s stronghold in the Fakai area of Shinkafi Local Government Area, Zamfara State. The offensive, carried out by troops of the 8 Division Strike Force, reportedly began early on March 20 as soldiers advanced into the Kagara Forest, a known base for the group.
During the mission, progress was briefly stalled after two military support vehicles developed faults near Maberaya village in Isa LGA. The pause gave way to an ambush by armed bandits who attacked from elevated positions within the forest.
Despite the setback, troops were said to have responded decisively, engaging the attackers with superior firepower and killing several of them.
Sources also revealed that three soldiers and a Department of State Services operative sustained injuries during the clash and were taken to the 8 Division Military Hospital for treatment.
Kamarawa described the operation as a significant breakthrough, noting that troops had earlier carried out a successful strike in Manawa village, where several bandits were neutralised before advancing toward Turji’s camp.
He, however, lamented that such victories often go unnoticed by the public.
According to him, while negative security developments tend to attract widespread attention, successes recorded by the military are rarely acknowledged.
The latest operation highlights ongoing efforts by security forces to dismantle bandit networks across Sokoto and Zamfara states. Although there has been no official confirmation, multiple sources suggest the offensive has disrupted Turji’s operations, offering cautious hope to affected communities.
