The 8th Division of the Nigerian Army has taken down a notorious bandit commander, Kachalla Kallamu, in the Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
A military source confirmed the development to reporters on Tuesday, describing the operation as “a significant victory in the ongoing war against terrorism and banditry in the Northwest.”
According to the source, who spoke anonymously, Kallamu — a key lieutenant of the notorious terror leader Bello Turji — was neutralised in a coordinated offensive executed by troops of the 8 Division working closely with local vigilante groups.
Reports indicate that Kallamu, along with one of Turji’s major logistics suppliers, was eliminated early Monday during a targeted sweep around Kurawa village. The swift and precise mission is said to have disrupted a vital supply network that had long supported terror activities in the area.
Kallamu, originally from Garin-Idi in Sabon Birni, had been a major source of fear for communities across eastern Sokoto. His violent operations reportedly led to widespread displacement and persistent insecurity.
Intelligence reports suggest he returned to the region after escaping a military operation in June 2025, during which he allegedly fled to Kogi State to avoid arrest.
The military source commended residents for providing crucial intelligence that contributed to the success of the mission, stressing that community cooperation remains essential in combating terrorism.
Residents of Sabon Birni have expressed relief following the development, and the Special Adviser on Security to Governor Ahmad Aliyu, retired Colonel Ahmad Usman, was said to have joined them in celebrating what many see as long-overdue justice for victims of banditry in the state.