Panic in Sokoto as bandits loyal to Turji kill residents, abduct women in night attack

A group of bandits believed to be loyal to the notorious warlord, Bello Turji, have carried out another deadly raid on Bargaja village in the Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State, leaving several residents dead and at least ten young women abducted.

According to security journalist and source, Bakastine, who confirmed the development, the incident occurred on Friday night, throwing the once-peaceful rural community into chaos and mourning.

“Yesterday night, bandits loyal to Bello Turji stormed Bargaja village in Isa LGA, Sokoto State, leaving several people dead. One person was seriously injured and at least 10 residents mostly young women were abducted,” he said.

Bakastine described the assault as another reminder of the “continuing threat of bandit violence across northwest Nigeria,” noting that small rural communities like Bargaja often remain unprotected and without prior warning before such attacks.

He explained that the assailants invaded the community on motorcycles, firing indiscriminately and setting several homes ablaze. Many villagers reportedly fled into nearby bushes in search of safety.

The journalist added that “the residents are urging authorities to intensify security patrols and rescue efforts for the abducted victims.”

This latest assault adds to the growing list of atrocities linked to Bello Turji’s faction, which has continued to terrorise parts of Sokoto, Zamfara, and Katsina States, despite ongoing military operations in the region.