Notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji is reportedly mobilizing his fighters for fresh offensives across communities in the eastern part of Sokoto State, following the receding of seasonal floods that had restricted movement for months.
Reliable sources told Zagazola Makama that the disappearance of floodwaters around key river crossings between Isa and Sabon Birni local government areas has reopened major routes previously impassable during the rainy season.
According to the sources, Turji traditionally intensifies his operations and visits to affected villages once the rains subside each year. The seasonal flooding, which submerged riverbanks and low-lying areas, had acted as a natural defense line, limiting his fighters’ mobility as many avoid water crossings.
“The receding water has now made it possible for Turji to resume direct movements across more than 50 communities between Isa and Sabon Birni,” one of the sources revealed.
The source added that Turji has begun restructuring his operational network, replacing several local representatives in the eastern axis of Sokoto.
One notable shake-up reportedly occurred in the Gangara area, where Turji replaced a field commander, Jammo Ba’ki, with another fighter identified as Arne Qulu.
“Our findings indicate that Turji is reorganising his command structure to consolidate his influence in the eastern corridor of Sokoto,” the source said.
Local residents and security contacts also confirmed increased surveillance and the movement of Turji’s men across rural areas in Sabon Birni and Isa, though no direct confrontations have been reported in recent days.
