A new video circulating online appears to show notorious bandit Bello Turji Kachalla alive, the footage carries a June 20, 2026, date, surfaced shortly after a deadly attack in Sokoto State.
Gunmen attacked Bargaja village in Isa Local Government Area, as a result, the incident triggered a clash with security forces and renewed concerns about insecurity in the region.
In the video, a man believed to be Turji speaks to a group of armed fighters. He celebrates what he describes as a recent victory. He also praises the recovery of livestock.
The footage displays large quantities of weapons. These include rifles, ammunition belts and what appears to be an anti-aircraft gun.
Meanwhile, several armed men surround the speaker. Some wear uniforms resembling those of the Nigerian Army and Nigeria Police Force. In addition, observers identified figures believed to be senior commanders within Turji’s network.
The video emerged after a violent confrontation in Sokoto State. Reports indicate that troops encountered an improvised explosive device during an operation.
The explosion killed at least two soldiers. It also sparked a firefight between troops and suspected bandits.
The video’s appearance has generated intense discussion online. Consequently, many users say it confirms that Turji remains active despite repeated reports of his death.
However, others question the authenticity of the footage. They argue that someone may have recorded the video earlier and released it after the Sokoto clash.
Turji remains one of Nigeria’s most wanted bandit leaders. Security agencies have linked his group to kidnappings, cattle rustling and deadly attacks across northwestern Nigeria.
His network operates mainly in Zamfara, Sokoto and nearby states. Over the years, security forces have launched several operations against the group.
Rumours about Turji’s death have surfaced many times. Nevertheless, subsequent videos and audio messages have repeatedly contradicted those claims.
For now, military authorities have not issued a statement on the video. They also have not addressed the claims made in the footage.
