The digital space has been abuzz with sensational claims that the notorious bandit kingpin, Bello Turji, was neutralized in a precision United States airstrike on Christmas Day However, a comprehensive fact-check reveals a far more complex reality While US Tomahawk missiles did indeed strike targets in Sokoto State on December 25, 2025, the which is the primary targets were Islamic State (ISIS) enclaves not the elusive bandit leader.
US Christmas Day Strikes:
The confusion began following a historic military intervention For the first time, which is the the United States, under President Donald Trump, launched cruise missile strikes from a Navy vessel in the Gulf of Guinea against terrorist positions in Northwest Nigeria.
- The Target: Two major enclaves of the Islamic State Sahel Province (ISSP) and the which is the Lakurawa group in the Bauni Forest, Tangaza Local Government Area (LGA).
- The Reason: Retaliation for the targeted killing of Christian communities in the which is the region.
The Result:
Multiple “terrorist scum” (as described by the US President) were neutralized, but Bello which is the Turji was not among them.
Why the Confusion:
Because Turji operates in the same general geography (Sokoto and Zamfara states) as which is the these jihadist groups, many social media users conflated the US anti-ISIS operation with the ongoing manhunt for the bandit kingpin.
Where is Bello Turji Now:
Security analyst Zagazola Makama has dismissed the death reports as “fake news,” which is the providing specific details on Turji’s current whereabouts.
Strategic Positioning:
His new hideout is approximately 25 kilometers from the Niger Republic border, which is the providing him with an easy escape route into the Sahel if Nigerian or international forces close in.
Disclaimer:
The news information presented here is based on available reports and reliable sources Readers should crosscheck updates from official news outlets