BREAKING: Nigerian Troops Eliminate Top Bandits’ Warlord Kachalla Kallamu — Major Blow to Bello Turji’s Terror Network in Sokoto

In a decisive breakthrough for Nigeria’s counter-terrorism operations, troops of the 8 Division, Nigerian Army, have neutralised a notorious bandits’ kingpin, Kachalla Kallamu, a feared lieutenant and close ally of terror mastermind Bello Turji, in Sabon Birnin Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

According to credible security sources who spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday, the operation—executed with precision in the early hours of Monday—was carried out by the Army in collaboration with local vigilante groups around Karawa village, marking one of the most successful anti-banditry offensives in recent months.

Kallamu, who hailed from Garin-Idi in Sabon Birni and was notorious for unleashing terror across vulnerable rural communities, was killed alongside one of Turji’s major logistics suppliers during the fierce engagement. The slain kingpin had only recently resurfaced in the area after fleeing a military onslaught earlier in June, where he was believed to have escaped to Kogi State.

Military Success Draws Praise Across Sokoto

The Special Adviser to Governor Ahmad Aliyu on Security Matters, Retired Col. Ahmad Usman, applauded the military for its consistent bravery and strategic successes, noting that troops had recently foiled a deadly ambush on traders travelling from Tarah village to a weekly market.

> “The swift response, professionalism, and courage displayed by our military personnel averted what could have been a tragic incident. The state government deeply appreciates their sacrifices and unwavering commitment,” Usman said.

In yet another coordinated offensive, the Nigerian Army neutralised 13 additional suspected bandits in the Tarah and Karawa axis, recovering a cache of weapons, including eight AK-47 rifles and large quantities of ammunition. Residents confirmed that the gun duel, which lasted several hours, forced the terrorists to retreat across a stream as soldiers advanced on their enclave.

A local source told NAN:

> “We counted nine bodies in our area, and four others were discovered in the nearby bush. The soldiers fought them fiercely and pursued them as they fled.”

Military insiders revealed that the success was recorded under Operation Fansan Yamma, a sustained counter-terrorism campaign targeting bandit hideouts across the region. The source confirmed that troops suffered no casualties, underscoring the effectiveness of the offensive.

In a related incident, bandits that launched an attack on Gatawa community were decisively repelled by a joint force of vigilante members and soldiers, leading to further losses on the terrorists’ side.

Communities Celebrate Victory, Demand Sustained Pressure

Residents of Karawa and neighbouring villages were seen celebrating the military’s achievements, describing the latest operations as a “long-awaited relief” from years of terror. Many appealed for continuous military presence to prevent bandits from regrouping.

The member representing Sabon Birni in the Sokoto State House of Assembly, Alhaji Aminu Boza, confirmed sighting at least nine bodies believed to be those of the terrorists, adding that search operations are still ongoing across affected areas.

For years, Gatawa and adjoining communities in Sabon Birni LGA have endured brutal attacks, mass abductions, and destruction by bandit groups. The latest military success, residents say, signals renewed hope for lasting peace.