The Nigerian military has announced that it is actively tracking the movements of notorious bandit leader Bello Turji and has pledged to eliminate him soon. Major General Emeka Onumajuru, the Chief of Defence Operations, made this disclosure during an interview on Channels Television's breakfast program, The Morning Brief, on Monday, February 24, 2025. He stated that the armed forces are aware of Turji's current location but refrained from providing further details.
This announcement comes in the wake of previous military operations that have significantly weakened Turji's network. In recent months, these operations have led to the elimination of his second-in-command and several top lieutenants, compelling Turji to release numerous hostages and consider surrendering. However, his unpredictable movements have posed challenges to swift military action.
Bello Turji, born in 1994 in Shinkafi, Zamfara State, has been a central figure in the Nigerian bandit conflict. He is responsible for numerous massacres and terrorist attacks against civilians and security forces, particularly in the northwestern regions of Nigeria. Notably, in January 2022, his gang carried out attacks in Zamfara State, resulting in the deaths of nearly 200 people, including women and children.
The military's renewed commitment to apprehending Turji aims to dismantle his operations and restore peace to the affected regions. Nigerians are urged to remain patient and supportive of the armed forces as they continue their efforts to neutralize this threat.