Security Forces Eliminate Bello Turji’s Top Commander, Danbokolo, in Zamfara
New information has surfaced regarding the death of Kachalla Yellow Danbokolo, a notorious bandit leader, who was killed over the weekend in Zamfara State following a fierce clash with the Shinkafi Volunteer Forces.
Danbokolo’s demise has sparked widespread celebrations across Zamfara and neighboring Northwestern states, where he was feared as one of the most ruthless bandits in the region—often considered more dangerous than his cousin, Bello Turji, who is seen by many as merely a figurehead.
According to security reports, Danbokolo, along with over 170 of his loyal bandits, were eliminated in a sudden and intense attack by the volunteer forces. Although the Department of State Services (DSS) has not officially confirmed their involvement, insiders suggest that the agency has been covertly supporting these operations.
Danbokolo reportedly sustained fatal gunshot wounds during the raid and was buried on Saturday. His death, alongside the loss of several of his key fighters, has been met with relief and joy, especially among residents of Kurya District in Shinkafi Local Government Area, who endured years of terror under his reign.
A local villager remarked, “We are truly celebrating. It’s hard to accept that Danbokolo—the man whose name once filled us with dread—is gone. He was the real mastermind and commander, while Bello Turji acted more as a spokesperson. Danbokolo was the one orchestrating the violence.”
The villager added, “Besides Danbokolo’s death, at least 173 of his men were killed and buried in the past week. Many others have fled, abandoning their camps after every attack by the volunteer forces.”
Another community member noted the rising fear and disarray among Turji’s supporters, saying some are already seeking amnesty, sensing their defeat is near. “This feels like the turning point. Bello Turji is on the run, and some of his fighters are begging for mercy,” he said.
These coordinated strikes by the volunteer forces mark the first major offensive against Turji’s main stronghold since the banditry crisis began. The impact has been devastating to the bandits, highlighted by the death of Danbokolo, believed by locals to be the true leader behind much of the terror in the area.
While the DSS remains publicly silent, volunteers involved in the operations continue to hint at receiving assistance from the agency.
Locals have expressed immense joy following the success of these missions, with many farmers hopeful that they will no longer be forced to pay protection fees to bandits this planting season.
Residents have also extended their gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the decisive intervention that has brought relief to their communities.
