Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 8th Division have killed notorious bandit kingpin Kachalla Kallamu during a coordinated operation in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State. A senior military source described the operation as “a major blow to the Turji network,” noting that Kallamu was a top lieutenant to the wanted bandit leader, Bello Turji.
The source added that Kallamu was killed alongside one of Turji’s main logistics suppliers during a dawn raid near Kurawa village on Monday. The operation was conducted with vital support from local vigilante groups. “Kallamu had been on our radar for months. His elimination marks a significant step in weakening the bandit network in Sabon Birni and surrounding communities,” the source said.
The slain kingpin, a native of Garin-Idi in Sabon Birni, had long terrorised residents in the area. He was believed to have fled to Kogi State after escaping a military onslaught in June 2025, but reportedly sneaked back into Sokoto recently.
The source commended the increased intelligence support from local communities, noting that collaboration between residents and security operatives has contributed to recent operational successes.
Celebrations have erupted across Sabon Birni following the news, with Col. Ahmed Usman (Rtd.), Special Adviser to Governor Ahmad Aliyu on Security Matters, commending the troops for “their sustained determination and professionalism” in the ongoing fight against banditry.
