In a surprising development, notorious bandit leader Bello Turji has reportedly released all individuals held captive by his group.
This announcement was made on Tuesday by Zagazola Makama, a counter-terrorism and insurgency expert in the Lake Chad Basin. The release comes amidst intensified military operations under Operation Hadarin Daji and Operation Forest Sanity, aimed at capturing Turji and dismantling his network in Zamfara State and surrounding regions.
According to Makama, who cited security sources, Turji’s decision to release the captives was influenced by the growing pressure from the Nigerian Armed Forces. Recent airstrikes and coordinated ground assaults on his hideouts in Fakai, Shinkafi, and nearby areas have significantly disrupted his group’s operations, forcing them to retreat.
Makama explained, “The release of the captives is being seen as a strategic move by Turji to avoid further escalation or a direct confrontation with security forces who have been closing in on him.”
The Nigerian military remains steadfast in its mission, declaring their commitment to apprehend Turji “dead or alive.” This latest move is being interpreted as an attempt by the bandit leader to de-escalate tensions and potentially avoid imminent confrontation with the advancing troops.
Military offensives against banditry in the region have intensified in recent months, with the goal of restoring peace and security to affected communities.