The troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA have successfully neutralized 24 bandits, including seven high-ranking commanders of the notorious Bello Turji gang, in the long week operations against banditry in the North West.
Zagazola Makama report that the operation, carried out by Special Forces of the Nigerian Army’s 1 Brigade and the Nigerian Navy Special Boat Services, in several hideouts of the bandits with the recent successes which took place on January 22, 2025, in Gebe village, Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
According to intelligence sources, the week-long offensive aimed at dismantling Turji’s operational network targeted hideouts and camps in Shinkafi and Isa LGAs, areas notorious for criminal activities. The operation involved ground troops supported by precision airstrikes by the Air Components and intelligence driven raids.
Among the seven prominent commanders neutralized were: Abu Dan Shehu, Jabbi Dogo, Dan Kane, Basiru Yellow, Kabiru Gebe, Bello Buba and Dan Inna Kahon Saniya (alias Yafi Bahaushe)
These individuals were pivotal to Turji’s operations,coordinating attacks, managing logistics and facilitating the movement of arms and supplies across the region. Their elimination deals a significant blow to the gang’s leadership and operational capabilities.
The operation was marked by sustained engagements, including ambushes, search-and destroy missions, and strategic airstrikes. It also resulted in the recovery of weapons, ammunition, and motorcycles used by the bandits to terrorize communities.
In recent months, the Nigerian Armed Forces have escalated their offensive against bandits following reports of heightened banditry, kidnappings, and attacks on civilians and security personnel, in Zamfara, Sokoto, Katsina and Birnin Kebbi.
The recent escalation of military offensives against Bello Turji, killing of his 7 Commanders alongside the dismantling of his hideouts and the confirmed death of his son, signifies a pivotal moment in the fight against banditry in Northwest region as a whole.
The reports of his loyalists relocating injured fighters and Turji himself seeking refuge in Maradun LGA highlight the impact of the military’s intensified offensives. These developments indicate that his operations have been severely crippled, and he is struggling to regroup.
The destruction of his Fakai base are not just symbolic losses but operational setbacks that will weaken his control over his network. Additionally, his reliance on a former rival, Jummo Smally, for refuge suggests desperation and reduced options.
The surrender of Abu Radde and Umar Black in Katsina State signals a ripple effect of the sustained military pressure. Turji’s allies may begin to consider surrender as a viable alternative, further isolating him.
Yes, these developments suggest that Turji’s grip is weakening, but his complete downfall depends on sustained pressure. Leaders like Turji are adept at exploiting terrain and tribal alliances to survive. However, his forced relocation and the loss of key fighters and supporters are signs that his end is approaching if the current momentum is maintained.
The military must maintain consistent pressure on Turji and his associates to prevent regrouping. Surveillance and intelligence gathering should focus on his new hideout in Garsa/Kadanya.
Local collaborators, like Jummo Smally, must be neutralized or deterred through targeted operations and community engagement. These alliances enable bandit leaders to survive and reorganize.
Leadership decapitation remains key. Turji’s capture or elimination will deliver a decisive blow. Additionally, disrupting his supply chains, including logistics and medical support, will weaken his fighters’ capacity to operate.
