By ZAKAA LAZARUS
Troops of the 8 Division of the Nigerian Army have neutralised a notorious bandit kingpin, Kachalla Kallamu, in a coordinated operation in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
A senior military source, who confirmed the development to newsmen on Tuesday, described the operation as “a major blow to the Turji network,” noting that Kallamu served as a top lieutenant to the wanted bandit leader, Bello Turji.
According to the source, Kallamu was killed alongside one of Turji’s principal logistics suppliers during a dawn offensive near Kurawa village on Monday.
The operation, the source added, was carried out with critical support from local vigilante groups.
“Kallamu had been on our radar for months. His elimination marks a significant step in weakening the bandit structure in Sabon Birni and surrounding communities,” the source said.
The slain kingpin, a native of Garin-Idi in Sabon Birni, had long terrorised residents in the area. He was believed to have fled to Kogi State after escaping a military onslaught in June 2025, but reportedly sneaked back into Sokoto recently.
The source commended the increased intelligence support from local communities, noting that collaboration between residents and security operatives has contributed to recent operational successes.
Celebrations have continued across Sabon Birni following the news, while the Special Adviser to Governor Ahmad Aliyu on Security Matters, Col. Ahmed Usman (Rtd.), also hailed the troops for “their sustained determination and professionalism” in the fight against banditry.
