BREAKING: Nigerian Army Kills Bandits Kingpin Bello Turji’s Deputy, Kallamu
Kachalla Kallamu, deputy to notorious bandits kingpin Bello Turji, has been killed by troops of the 8 Division of the Nigerian Army in Sokoto State.
The operation took place in the Sabon Birni Local Government Area, where the army neutralised Kallamu in a coordinated strike against bandit activities.
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.
The source said Kallamu was killed alongside one of Turji’s principal logistics suppliers during a dawn offensive near Kurawa village on Monday.
He added that the operation 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.
Kallamu, 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.
The Special Adviser to Governor Ahmad Aliyu on Security Matters, Col. Ahmed Usman (Rtd.), has hailed the troops for “their sustained determination and professionalism” in the fight against banditry.
