A violent confrontation broke out early this morning around 6:00 a.m. as the Nigerian army and residents of Gatawa engaged in intense clashes with the notorious bandit leader Bello Turji and his heavily armed fighters. The fierce gun battle is ongoing near Bakin Gulbi, close to Tungar Yakuba in Sokoto state, and has involved heavy artillery fire from both sides.
Local sources report that the conflict erupted after Turji held a secret meeting in Dan Tasakko village, close to Gatawa, shortly after sunset on Monday.
This clandestine gathering reportedly involved key members of Turji’s network, raising alarms among residents and Nigerian security forces about an impending assault. The Nigerian military mobilized troops to the area in response to the heightened threat, leading to a violent confrontation early this morning.
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Residents in nearby villages have expressed fear and concern, as the intensity of the battle has forced some to flee their homes to seek shelter in safer areas. Casualty details remain unconfirmed, but eyewitnesses report hearing sustained gunfire and explosions echoing across the region.
The Nigerian military and residents are working to repel Turji’s forces. The Sokoto State government has yet to release an official statement on the situation, but reinforcements are reportedly on standby.
Sources anticipate further updates as security forces continue to confront the bandit group to restore peace to the region.
A Gatawa resident, Saminu, confirmed to ASHENEWS in a telephone interview, adding that victims from the clashes had not been ascertained as of his conversation with our reporter.
