By SUNTV Global Channel | January 14, 2026
Terrorists linked to notorious bandit kingpin Bello Turji have launched another deadly attack in Sokoto State, storming Gajit community in the Lajinge District of Sabon Birni Local Government Area and abducting more than 20 residents.
Local sources told SUNTV Global Channel that the heavily armed assailants invaded the community in large numbers on Tuesday night, shooting sporadically and throwing residents into panic. At least two villagers were injured during the assault, while dozens were dragged away by the attackers to an unknown location.
A community-based security intelligence platform, Bakatsine, confirmed the incident on Wednesday, describing the attack as part of a coordinated campaign by Bello Turji’s loyalists to tighten their grip on communities across the Sokoto East Senatorial District.
Pattern Of Coordinated Attacks
The latest raid comes barely days after Turji’s fighters launched violent assaults on Tidibale village in Isa Local Government Area, forcing entire families to flee their homes in the middle of the night. Videos from the attack showed terrified residents abandoning their houses and escaping to neighbouring communities for safety.
Security sources also confirmed that Bargaja village, also in Isa LGA, was attacked earlier, reinforcing fears that the bandits are executing a systematic plan to dominate strategic rural settlements in eastern Sokoto.
Growing Fear, Rising Displacement
Despite repeated assurances by government authorities, communities across Sokoto continue to face relentless attacks, mass abductions and forced displacement, as armed groups operate with little resistance.
Residents say the wave of violence has turned once-peaceful villages into ghost towns, with survivors fleeing farmlands and homes, leaving livelihoods behind.
As of the time of filing this report, no official statement has been issued by the Sokoto State Government or security agencies on the latest attack, even as fear and uncertainty spread across the affected areas.
— SUNTV Global Channel
