Turji-Led Bandits Kill Five, Abduct Nine in Sokoto Village Attack

Armed bandits led by notorious warlord, Bello Turji, have killed five people and abducted nine others during an attack on Bargaja village in Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

The attackers, who stormed the community in the early hours of Saturday, also injured a member of the Community Guard Corps during the raid.

Local activist, Basharu Altine Guyawa, had earlier raised alarm over the movement of Turji’s gang, warning that they were seen advancing towards Isa LGA from the Shinkafi axis in neighbouring Zamfara State.

Guyawa alleged that despite his warning, security agencies and local authorities failed to take proactive measures to prevent the assault.

However, the Chairman of Isa Local Government Area, Sharehu Abubakar Kamarawa, dismissed claims of negligence, explaining that the council had mobilised security guards and alerted relevant agencies immediately after receiving the report.

He said security personnel were deployed to the area, but the bandits diverted through another route, eventually launching the deadly attack.

Kamarawa added that the security commander in charge of the area had been replaced following lapses in response and coordination.

The latest incident adds to a series of violent attacks by armed groups across parts of Sokoto State, particularly in the eastern axis, where rural communities continue to face persistent threats despite ongoing security operations.