Residents in Zamfara communities fear Bello Turji’s bandits are back in force

Residents of several communities in Maradun Local Government Area, Zamfara State, are raising alarms about the growing presence of Bello Turji’s notorious bandit group.
According to local reports, Turji’s loyal followers—often seen riding motorcycles and carrying injured comrades—were spotted on the evening of January 19 and the morning of January 20, 2025, making their way towards the Garsa/Kadanya area, which is known as a hideout for the bandits.
Eyewitnesses revealed that the group traveled through a number of villages, including Galadi, Damaga, Rudunu, and Danbenchi. Some of Turji’s men have reportedly been seen around the Rudunu, Bankamawa, and Farfaru areas within Faru District.
Further intelligence suggests that Turji, along with some of his key followers, is currently hiding in the Garsa/Kadanya area, allegedly under the protection of Jummo Smally, a former rival bandit leader who has now allied with Turji.
Despite efforts to reach the Zamfara State police spokesperson for comment, there was no response at the time of filing this report.
The return of Turji’s foot soldiers has left residents worried and unsure of what’s to come, as the fear of increased violence and unrest grows across the region.