Bello Turji Associate Killed in Sokoto Airstrike Offensive
By DAYO ADESULU
In a decisive military operation targeting terrorist networks in Nigeria’s North West, Bello Turji associate has been reportedly killed in Sokoto airstrike. Shaudo Alku, a key associate of the notorious terrorist leader Bello Turji, was confirmed dead following a precision airstrike in Sokoto State.
The Nigerian Armed Forces, through the Air Component of Operation Fagge Yama, executed the mission on Sunday, striking a terrorist hideout near Tunfa Primary School in Isa Local Government Area. The raid successfully neutralized the Bello Turji associate, Alku and several other militants, including suspected high-ranking commanders.
Targeted Strike Hits Bello Turji Associate Meeting Point
Intelligence reports revealed that Shaudo Alku, a crucial logistics figure in Turji’s network, had crossed into Nigeria from Niger Republic to attend a secret strategy meeting organized by the Turji faction. The Nigerian military, leveraging real-time surveillance and actionable intelligence, tracked the movement of terrorists and launched a targeted airstrike that destroyed the meeting location.
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“Surveillance and actionable intelligence enabled the Nigerian military to pinpoint the gathering, prompting a swift and decisive air assault that neutralised multiple targets,” said a senior military source who requested anonymity.
According to military intelligence, Bello Turji associate, Alku played a critical role in arms procurement and coordination of cross-border terrorist activities, making his death a significant blow to the operational framework of Turji’s insurgent faction.
Nigerian Army Confirms Strike, Reiterates Commitment to Ending Terrorism
The Nigerian Army, in a statement via its official communication channels, confirmed the airstrike and emphasized that the operation demonstrates the nation’s unwavering resolve to end terrorism and restore peace in Sokoto, Zamfara, and Katsina States.
“This operation marks a significant step in dismantling the command structure of terrorist groups operating across the North West,” the statement read.
The Army also disclosed that mop-up operations were ongoing in the region, with ground troops pursuing fleeing insurgents and securing the affected areas.
Who Was Shaudo Alku?
Described by intelligence officials as more than just a foot soldier, Bello Turji associate, Shaudo Alku was considered a strategic asset in Turji’s operations. His involvement in cross-border arms trafficking and recruitment made him a key figure in sustaining the insurgency in Nigeria’s North West corridor.
“Alku was not just a foot soldier. He was deeply involved in arms procurement and coordination of cross-border insurgent activity,” the military source added.
Turji’s Network: A Persistent Regional Threat
Bello Turji has long been identified as one of the most dangerous bandit leaders operating in the North West. His faction is responsible for numerous mass abductions, village massacres, and ambushes on security forces. Operating across Nigeria-Niger-Chad borders, his network poses a complex challenge to national and regional security.
With Bello Turji associate, Alku’s elimination, military analysts believe a temporary disruption in Turji’s logistics and coordination is inevitable. However, they warn that more sustained efforts are required to completely dismantle the group.
“This is a big win, no doubt. But dismantling terrorist networks requires sustained pressure and coordination with neighbouring countries, especially Niger and Chad,” said Dr. Yusuf Anka, a conflict and security expert based in Sokoto.
Local Reactions: Hope and Relief in Isa LGA
Residents in Isa Local Government Area have expressed relief and cautious optimism following the successful operation against Bello Turji associate. A local resident, speaking under anonymity for security reasons, described the moment the airstrike occurred.
“We heard the explosions and later saw helicopters. It gave us hope that the government has not forgotten us,” the resident said.
The renewed aerial offensive, part of Operation Fagge Yama, has significantly intensified in recent weeks, targeting high-value terrorist enclaves and weapons depots across Nigeria’s troubled north-western region.
What Comes Next?
As of press time, the Nigerian military has promised to release further details from the air raid, including casualty figures, recovered weapons, and intelligence findings. Meanwhile, efforts are being redoubled to pursue surviving militants and further weaken terrorist strongholds in Sokoto and beyond.
