Turji’s Loyalists Training Fighters With New Weapons Along Sokoto-Zamfara Border

A report has raised concerns over alleged weapons training and tactical exercises being carried out by suspected loyalists of notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji, along communities bordering Sokoto and Zamfara States.

The report, released by the Sokoto State Coordinator of the Movement for Social Justice and Good Governance, Basharu Altine, claimed that fighters linked to Turji are currently undergoing military-style training in the area.

According to the report, the exercises are taking place across communities stretching from Bingabale Kudu through Bafarawa East to Bargaja, where the suspected bandits are allegedly being trained in the use of newly acquired weapons.

Altine alleged that some of Turji’s close associates, including Illa Manawa and Dodo, who he described as the bandit leader’s younger brother, are involved in the activities.

He said intelligence gathered by his organisation suggested that the fighters were receiving training on handling sophisticated weapons recently introduced into the region.

“Our findings suggest that these fighters are currently engaged in weapons training and tactical exercises using newly acquired arms, including some of the same sophisticated weapons reportedly deployed during recent confrontations with security forces,” Altine stated.

The security advocate further claimed that intelligence reports indicated the arrival of fresh recruits and weapons consignments, with some of the new fighters allegedly having links to insurgent groups.

According to him, the new arrivals were believed to have advanced combat experience and were brought in to strengthen Turji’s network operating around the Sokoto-Zamfara axis.

Altine also alleged that night-vision devices were among the equipment reportedly delivered to the group’s camps, adding that investigations had linked suspected commanders Haru Dole and Ibrahim Chimo to the alleged movement of arms.

“Sources suggest that Haru Dole and Ibrahim Chimo played significant roles in facilitating the delivery of these arms alongside Bello Turji,” he said.

He warned that the alleged collaboration between the groups could pose a wider security threat, particularly in communities across eastern Sokoto.

Altine claimed intelligence reports suggested possible plans by the armed groups to expand their influence and carry out coordinated attacks on some local government areas before the height of the rainy season.

He urged security agencies to increase surveillance, verify the intelligence available, and take proactive measures to prevent possible attacks.

The development comes amid continued concerns over banditry and armed criminal activities in parts of Sokoto and Zamfara States.

Security analyst Zagazola Makama had previously identified individuals he described as associates of Turji and alleged their involvement in violent activities across the region.