Heavy gunfire as soldiers clash with notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji in Sokoto

Bello Turji, a notorious bandit leader, is reportedly engaged in a fierce gun battle with soldiers and local hunters in Gatawa, a town in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

The clash began around 6 am today and is still ongoing, with the town now under a tense silence and restricted movement.

A source speaking to Daily Trust indicated that the bandits attempted to infiltrate the town, but soldiers and local hunters successfully thwarted their efforts. The source also suggested that Turji is likely leading the assault himself.

The source explained, “The gunfire exchange started around 6 am and continues as I speak with you now (2:45 pm). We’re in shock, as no one knows what will happen in the coming hours. The town is eerily quiet, and no one is allowed to enter or leave at the moment.”

The situation remains unclear, with no further details available until the fighting subsides. “We are hoping the soldiers will emerge victorious and that Turji will be among those taken down in this battle,” the source added.

Another anonymous resident described the encounter as the most intense they’ve ever witnessed in the area. “This is the fiercest battle we’ve seen here. We hope this will be the end of Bello Turji. We’re praying for more soldiers to be sent to the area, as we expect the bandits might call for reinforcements.”