Troops Close in on Wanted Terrorist Kingpin Bello Turji After Killing Son
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed that troops from Operation Fansan Yamma in the North-West have raided the camp of notorious terrorist kingpin Bello Turji, killing his son during a major operation on January 17, 2025.
In a statement, Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, explained that the clearance operations were conducted across several axes in Zamfara State, including Shinkafi, Kagara, Fakai, Moriki, Maiwa, and Chindo.
During the operation, which targeted the highground of Fakai Hills, troops engaged Turji’s fighters in a fierce gunfight. The raid resulted in heavy casualties for the terrorists, with Bello Turji’s son confirmed dead. Despite the heavy resistance, Turji himself fled the scene, abandoning his fighters and family.
“The operations also led to the rescue of several kidnapped hostages held by Bello Turji,” General Buba reported. “In a cowardly act, Turji escaped, leaving behind his son and combatants.”
In addition to this operation, troops destroyed another terrorist camp belonging to Idi Mallam, another terrorist kingpin, in the Zango Kagara Forest. During the engagement, three terrorists were neutralized, and three suspected collaborators were arrested. The troops also seized significant weapons and military equipment, including:
- Two machine guns
- One AK47 rifle
- A magazine containing 11 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition
Additionally, 61 rustled cattle and 44 sheep were recovered.
General Buba reassured the public that the military is committed to sustaining the pressure on terrorist groups, with ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of all citizens. He emphasized that the troops’ dedication to eliminating terrorist threats and rescuing kidnapped victims remains a top priority.
