In a significant breakthrough in Nigeria’s fight against banditry, notorious terrorist leader Bello Turji has reportedly expressed his readiness to surrender following intensified military operations that have weakened his network.
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, made this revelation on Friday during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today. According to General Musa, the military’s sustained efforts have put Turji under immense pressure, particularly after the recent elimination of his second-in-command and several key lieutenants.
“He is now forced to release most of the people under him,” the CDS stated. “Recently, he has begun to say he doesn’t want anything; he is ready to surrender.”
However, General Musa emphasized that surrendering does not absolve Turji of responsibility for his crimes, insisting that all perpetrators of violence must face justice.
“We want to take everybody out. Anybody who has killed should go. People like him should not be allowed to stay,” he said, reaffirming the military’s commitment to restoring peace in the region.
Bello Turji, one of Nigeria’s most wanted bandit leaders, has long been linked to orchestrating violent attacks, kidnappings, and mass killings across the northwest. The Nigerian military, under Operation Fansan Yamma, recently intensified its crackdown on his group.
A statement by the Defence Headquarters confirmed that Turji’s deputy, Aminu Kanawa, was killed in an airstrike. Other high-profile associates, including Turji’s younger brother, Dosso, and a key ally, Danbokolo, also sustained fatal injuries. Additionally, the military neutralized several top commanders, including Abu Dan Shehu, Jabbi Dogo, Dan Kane, Basiru Yellow, Kabiru Gebe, Bello Buba, and Dan Inna Kahon-Saniya-Yafi-Bahaushe.
Troops also eliminated over 24 terrorists fleeing from Turji’s stronghold in Sokoto and Zamfara states.
The Nigerian military continues its operations to dismantle terror networks, ensuring that those responsible for destabilizing communities are brought to justice.
