Terrorists Under Turji Reportedly Undergoing Weapons Training in Sokoto Communities

By Opeyemi Adelakun

Emerging security threats have surfaced in eastern Sokoto State as reports indicate that fighters loyal to the infamous terrorist leader Bello Turji are allegedly undergoing weapons training and tactical drills in communities along the Sokoto-Zamfara border.

The unsettling claims were highlighted in a recent intelligence report from Basharu Altine, the Sokoto State Coordinator of the Movement for Social Justice and Good Governance. He alleged that armed followers of the notorious bandit kingpin are executing military-style exercises in regions stretching from Bingabale Kudu to Bafarawa East and Bargaja.

According to Altine’s report, key associates of Turji, including Illa Manawa and a figure believed to be his younger brother, Dodo, are reportedly overseeing this training program.

Intelligence gathered by Altine’s organization points to the fighters receiving instruction in the use of sophisticated weaponry recently introduced in the region, including equipment allegedly utilized in prior confrontations with security forces.

Further allegations suggest a new shipment of arms has reached the group, accompanied by freshly recruited fighters reportedly possessing advanced combat skills and weapons-handling expertise.

The report raises concerns that some of these recruits may have connections to insurgent groups and are being tasked with strengthening Turji’s operational network across the border communities of Sokoto and Zamfara states.

Intelligence sources cited in the report indicate that night-vision equipment linked to Turji is among the arsenal supplied to the group’s training camps.

Two suspected bandit commanders, Haru Dole and Ibrahim Chimo, have been identified as crucial figures in the procurement and distribution of these weapons.

Altine cautioned that the alleged collaboration between these commanders and Turji could significantly enhance the group’s influence in eastern Sokoto, raising the potential for coordinated attacks on local communities and government facilities.

He urged security agencies to heighten surveillance, validate these intelligence claims, and take proactive measures to safeguard lives and property in the affected areas.

At the time of this report, security authorities had yet to provide an official response to the allegations, and the claims remain independently unverified.