New security fears are mounting in North-West Nigeria after reports surfaced that prominent bandit leader Bello Turji has obtained advanced weaponry. Allegations suggest he is working alongside Boko Haram militants to instruct and supply fresh recruits.
Bashir Altine Guyawa Isa, who heads the Rundunar Adalchi group in Sokoto State, disclosed these findings during a BBC Hausa Service broadcast on Monday. He claims that local vigilante intelligence points to a training facility situated near the border of Sokoto and Zamfara. At this site, new members undergo indoctrination and tactical preparation before being sent to conduct raids throughout the region.
Isa emphasized that the involvement of Boko Haram trainers has significantly bolstered the strength of these criminal factions. He warned that the base poses a grave danger to local security and complicates government attempts to secure the area. The vigilante leader stated that officials are reportedly informed about the site and must move quickly to shut it down. He cautioned that his group’s intelligence indicates potential future strikes on key infrastructure and high-profile targets.
While calling for a ramped-up response from military and intelligence services to curb rising violence, kidnappings, and regional unrest, Isa noted that these claims remain unverified. As of now, official security departments have not issued a public statement regarding these specific assertions.
