Fresh Terror Alert: Boko Haram training Turji’s fighters for deadlier attacks

A local security leader in Sokoto State has raised the alarm over an alleged new security threat in the North-West, claiming that notorious bandit kingpin, Bello Turji, has acquired sophisticated weapons and is working with Boko Haram elements to train new fighters.

Bashir Altine Guyawa Isa, leader of Rundunar Adalchi in Sokoto State, made the allegation during an interview with BBC Hausa Service monitored in Kaduna on Monday.

Isa claimed that intelligence available to local security volunteers suggested that Turji had intensified efforts to strengthen his armed network through collaboration with extremist groups operating in the region.

According to him, Turji and his associates have allegedly established a training camp around the Sokoto-Zamfara border, where recruits are being trained, indoctrinated and armed for future attacks.

He alleged that the camp had been in existence for some time and was being used as a base for preparing fighters who are later deployed to attack communities across parts of the North-West.

Isa further claimed that Boko Haram members were providing training and logistical support to the fighters, a development he said could make criminal networks in the region more dangerous and difficult to contain.

The vigilante leader warned that the alleged camp posed a serious threat to public safety and could undermine ongoing efforts by security agencies to restore peace in communities affected by banditry, kidnapping and terrorism.

He also alleged that the authorities were aware of the facility’s existence, urging them to act decisively before the situation deteriorates further.

According to him, intelligence gathered by local security groups suggested that the terrorists may be planning to expand their operations beyond rural communities and begin targeting high-profile installations and prominent individuals.

Isa warned that failure to act quickly could embolden the terrorists and expose more communities in Sokoto, Zamfara and neighbouring states to further attacks.

He called for enhanced military operations and intelligence-led interventions to dismantle the alleged camp and prevent further escalation of insecurity in the region.

The allegations have not been independently verified, while security authorities have yet to publicly react to the claims.