“We killed security operatives” – Bandit kingpin Bello Turji boasts after deadly attack on troops in Sokoto

Bello Turji, a notorious bandit leader, has claimed responsibility for an attack that reportedly killed security operatives in Isa local government area of Sokoto state.

The claim followed an incident in which at least two soldiers were killed and several others injured after an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) exploded on a military vehicle conveying troops to Bargaja community.

The soldiers were said to be responding to a distress call following a bandit attack on the community in the early hours of Saturday.

Residents told journalists that bandits invaded the village between 12:30am and 3:00am, shooting sporadically and forcing residents to seek military intervention.

A resident, who spoke anonymously, alleged that the attackers planted the IED along the Isa-Bargaja road before the arrival of the troops.

In a video released after the incident, Turji expressed satisfaction over the reported casualties.

His words: “We thank Allah for allowing us to witness this Saturday, June 20. After thanking Allah, in this country of ours, Nigeria, especially in some areas where we have been facing constant challenges.

“God willing, Allah has granted us victory over those who have been rustling our livestock and killing our innocent brothers in some local government areas including Isa, Zamfara, Sokoto State, Sabon Birni and other local government areas around.

“Allah granted us victory over these people carrying out operations against us and taking away our livestock. We have succeeded in killing some of them, and we have successfully recovered our livestock from their hands.”