By DAYO ADESULU
Unverified Reports of Death Remain Unconfirmed
There are no official statements from Nigerian authorities, the Nigerian military, or the United States government confirming the death or neutralization of Bello Turji, the notorious bandit leader operating in north-western Nigeria.
Although social media and unconfirmed sources have circulated claims that Turji was eliminated during recent air operations involving US and Nigerian forces, credible news outlets and official military channels have not verified his death.
What Security Sources Confirmed So Far
Latest verified reports show that Nigerian troops have made tactical gains against Turji’s network, but not that he himself has been killed:
Nigerian Army troops recently neutralised Kachalla Kallamu, a senior lieutenant and logistics supplier for Turji’s network, during an offensive in Sokoto State. This was confirmed by security sources familiar with the operation.
The United States has reportedly conducted airstrikes in northwest Nigeria targeting extremist elements in a joint operation with Nigerian forces. Reuters and other international outlets reported that the US struck Islamic State-linked militants at the request of Nigeria, killing multiple fighters.
However, none of these credible reports confirm that Bello Turji himself was killed.
Bello Turji’s Status Before These Claims
Bello Turji Kachalla is a notorious bandit leader long wanted by Nigerian security forces for kidnappings, massacres, and terror activities across Zamfara, Sokoto, and Niger states. He has been the subject of intense military operations for years, but remains at large.
In recent months leading up to these unverified claims, Turji was reported to have been active and even issued public statements accusing former governors and police of worsening insecurity—indicating he was alive and operational.
Air Operations and Turji’s Whereabouts
U.S. and Nigerian forces have carried out precision air strikes in northwest Nigeria targeting terrorist strongholds, but these were directed at groups linked to the Islamic State and extremist networks, not specifically confirmed as strikes that killed Turji. �
Earlier local military operations had targeted Turji camps and resulted in the death of his close associates and destruction of infrastructure, but Turji’s own status remained unconfirmed by those reports. �
Suspension of Rumours Pending Official Word
At this time, reports of Bello Turji’s death are unverified and should be treated with caution. Major international news agencies, Nigerian Defence Headquarters, and official military spokespeople have not issued statements confirming his neutralization.
News organisations and security analysts generally advise waiting for official confirmation from either the Nigerian military, U.S. Africa Command, or credible defence sources before reporting such a development as fact.
