Notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji, has expressed willingness to surrender and embrace peace following the killing of his key operational commander, Danbokolo, in a recent joint security operation, credible sources have confirmed.
Turjis sudden shift in tone was captured in a viral video over the weekend, in which he spoke of laying down arms and pursuing dialogue. However, security officials and intelligence sources have attributed the move to desperation rather than genuine repentance.
The turning point came three days before the video surfaced, when Danbokolodescribed as the tactical mastermind behind Turjis deadly operationswas killed in a coordinated raid by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), Hybrid Forces, and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).
Danbokolo was the engine of Turjis activitiesthe one who led ambushes, raids, and high-level attacks, a security source said. Without him, Turji has lost control and is now scrambling to survive.
Sources say Turji, once known for his fiery rhetoric and defiance of state authority, has gone into hiding, with his network reportedly collapsing under sustained intelligence-led offensives. His recent outreach is seen as a calculated move to escape mounting military pressure and possible elimination.
Security officials caution that while his surrender may be a significant development, it does not mark the end of banditry in the region. Armed groups continue to operate across Zamfara, Sokoto, and Katsina States, and analysts believe that the surrender of one leader cannot dismantle the deeply rooted criminal enterprise.
There is no official confirmation yet on whether the government will accept Turjis offer of peace or pursue prosecution. Victims and civil society groups have already called for justice, citing Turjis alleged involvement in numerous attacks on communities across the Northwest.
The Federal Government is expected to make a formal statement in the coming days.
By Zagazola Makama
