In a shocking development, notorious bandit leader Bello Turji and his gang have reportedly seized an Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) and a significant amount of ammunition from the Nigerian Army. The incident occurred during a military operation in Turji’s camp, and videos have surfaced online showing the bandits celebrating their victory.
The incident was confirmed by ZagaZola Makama, a counterinsurgency and security expert in the Lake Chad region. According to Makama, the military received intelligence about a high-level meeting of bandits at a specific location within Bello Turji’s camp. In response, a team of troops, led by a young officer, was deployed to the area. However, their vehicle became stuck in the marshy terrain, severely hindering their movement.
Makama reported that the troops came under intense fire from the bandits, leading to a fierce gunfight that lasted for several hours. Due to heavy rainfall, air support was delayed, allowing the bandits to strengthen their position. The troops attempted to free their vehicle with another Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle, but it also got stuck in the mud.
As the situation became increasingly dire, the troops were forced to withdraw, leaving behind their vehicles. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported. Hours later, Turji and his gang returned to the scene, firing shots into the sky and celebrating their successful seizure of the military vehicles.
The Nigerian Army has not yet issued an official statement regarding the incident.
