Over 100 feared killed as Zamfara community guards, Bello Turji’s fighters clash

There are indications that no fewer than 100 people were reportedly killed on Monday following a fierce confrontation between foot soldiers loyal to notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji, and members of the Zamfara Civilian Protection Guard (CPG), near Cida village in Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

According to local sources, the CPG, supported by members of the Borno State Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), launched a surprise operation on Turji’s stronghold with the aim of capturing him dead or alive. The offensive was allegedly led by a repentant bandit identified as Bashari Meniyo.

“They mobilised under the leadership of Bashari Meniyo, a former bandit who has since renounced violence, and headed straight to Turji’s camp without the knowledge or coordination of formal security forces,” said Sa’idu Garba, a resident of the area.

However, Turji reportedly got wind of the impending attack and swiftly organised a counter-offensive.

“Turji had intelligence of their movement and quickly mobilised over 1,000 armed fighters,” Garba revealed. “A deadly exchange of gunfire ensued and lasted for several hours, with no intervention from security personnel.”

Garba confirmed that while Turji narrowly escaped the ambush, more than 100 of his fighters were killed in the ensuing battle. The CPG also suffered significant casualties, with over 20 members reportedly killed, including Meniyo himself.

“If the security forces had intervened during the clash, Turji might have been neutralised,” Garba added.

Another resident, Mohammed Sani, described the terror experienced by nearby villagers during the prolonged gunfight.

“There was panic everywhere. I heard heavy gunfire throughout the day. People fled their homes, running in different directions for safety,” Sani recounted.

Efforts to reach the military spokesperson, Lt. Col. Suleiman Omale, were unsuccessful, as calls to his phone went unanswered and text messages were not returned.

However, the Special Assistant to Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal on Media and Communications, Mustafa Kaura, confirmed the incident but said he could not provide an exact death toll.

“I’m aware of the incident but cannot confirm the number of casualties at this point. An investigation is underway,” Kaura stated