Fear gave way to relief in Zamfara State over the weekend, as the dreaded bandit leader Kachalla Yellow Danbokolo was confirmed dead following an intense raid by local volunteer forces.

Danbokolo, long regarded as the true commander behind terror in the Northwest, reportedly died from gunshot wounds sustained in a surprise attack earlier in the week.

Locals have for years whispered that while Bello Turji made statements, it was Danbokolo who enforced terror.

“Danbokolo is the man behind the mask. Turji merely communicates, while dreaded Danbokolo is the executioner of all the evil,” said a relieved resident of Kurya District in Shinkafi.

“His name used to strike fear in our hearts. We are in serious celebration mood,” the resident added.

Danbokolo was said to have died from sustained injuries and was buried on Saturday. He did not go alone — at least 173 of his fighters were also reportedly killed in the same offensive.

Fear Grips Turji Loyalists as Fighters Flee

Following the strike, many of Turji’s remaining loyalists are now believed to be on the run. Some are reportedly seeking to surrender.

A resident said, “Known loyalists of Turji are now in a state of fear and confusion.”

Another added, “This is the first time we believe that these bandits will soon be gone for good. Bello Turji has no hiding place.”

He said Turji and his men have now resorted to “desperately begging for amnesty” as they face what could be the final collapse of their strongholds.

Residents Hope for Farming Without Bandit Taxes

Locals in Shinkafi LGA and beyond were jubilant. Farmers are particularly relieved. For years, they were forced to pay levies to bandits to access their land.

“We thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the intervention,” one farmer said with hope in his voice.

The Department of State Services (DSS) has not officially claimed involvement, though some sources described their role in the recent raids as “covert assault.”

While details remain unconfirmed, many believe this was the first successful strike on Turji’s camp since banditry became organised in the region.

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