Bandit Kingpin Turji Boasts About Killing Soldiers in Sokoto IED Attack

Bandit kingpin Bello Turji has released a video boasting about killing soldiers in Sokoto State, after an improvised explosive device attack on a military vehicle in Isa Local Government Area.

At least two soldiers were killed and several others injured when the IED hit their vehicle as they responded to a bandit attack on Bargaja community between 12:30 a.m. and 3:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 20.

Residents told Daily Trust that bandits invaded the village, shooting sporadically, forcing residents to call for military intervention. A resident said the attackers planted the IED along the Isa-Bargaja road before troops arrived.

In a video released after the attack, Turji said he was excited that some of his enemies had been killed. “We thank Allah for allowing us to witness this Saturday, June 20,” he said. “Allah has granted us victory over those who have been rustling our livestock and killing our innocent brothers.”

Turji claimed his fighters had recovered livestock from security forces and succeeded in killing some of them. The claims could not be independently verified.

Premium Times also reported that the bandits were conducting weapons training in communities along the Sokoto-Zamfara border, including Bingabale Kudu, Bafarawa East, and Bargaja, raising fears that the groups were regrouping despite ongoing military offensives.

The Nigerian Army has confirmed intelligence about the weapons training, with Lt. Col. Osoba Olaniyi of the 8 Division saying the military is aware of Turji’s activities in the area.

Sources: Daily Trust, Premium Times