A deadly gun battle between members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and armed men loyal to notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji, has reportedly claimed several lives in Chida community, located in the Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
According to security sources, the confrontation occurred on Monday during a counter-banditry operation launched by a combined team of CJTF operatives and a former bandit, Bashir Maniya, in the Fakai axis — known to be a stronghold of Turji’s group.
In retaliation, Bello Turji reportedly mobilized a large number of heavily armed fighters who ambushed the vigilante group, resulting in a prolonged exchange of gunfire. Several CJTF members, including Bashir Maniya, were killed in the encounter. Security vehicles used by the task force were also destroyed.
A source close to the operation said, “Maniya led the team with the intent to eliminate Turji, but the bandit leader got wind of the movement and gathered his lieutenants and foot soldiers. They ambushed the team and opened fire, leading to heavy casualties on both sides.”
Though the exact number of fatalities remains unclear, both CJTF operatives and bandit fighters reportedly suffered losses.
Residents of nearby villages were thrown into panic as gunshots rang out across the area. A local resident, who requested anonymity for safety reasons, confirmed the shootout, saying, “Many people fled their homes. The whole community was in chaos.”
A video released shortly after the incident showed Bello Turji with his men, responding to the attack, though no further details were given.
As of the time of filing this report, security authorities in Zamfara State have not issued an official statement regarding the incident.