Armed men loyal to notorious bandit kingpin Bello Turji have reportedly attacked and sacked four communities in Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State, including Bafarawa, the hometown of former governor Attahiru Dalhatu Bafarawa.
The assault, allegedly led by Turji’s associate, Danbakolo, also affected the communities of Gebe, Kamarawa, Garin Fadama and Haruwai.
The attack took place around 11am on Saturday and was reportedly in retaliation for recent military operations targeting bandits in the region.
According to local sources, three people—including a woman and her son—were killed during the raid by Turji’s younger brother.
The attackers stormed Bafarawa, accusing residents of providing intelligence to the military.
“They went straight to the palace of the Sarkin Gabas of Bafarawa, Alhaji Muhammad Dalhatu, who is the elder brother of the former governor,” a resident told Daily Trust.
“They searched for him, took his money and phones, and warned the community against collaborating with security forces.”
Residents of the affected villages fled to nearby Shinkafi town for safety.
However, military personnel reportedly encouraged them to return home on Sunday, assuring them of improved protection.
When contacted for comment, the spokesman of the Sokoto State Police Command, DSP Ahmad Rufa’i, denied the incident.
“I don’t think there is anything like that because there is a heavy presence of security operatives in those areas,” he said.
Despite the denial, multiple sources maintain that the attacks occurred and have left residents living in fear.
