By ZAGAZOLA MAKAMA

Notorious bandits’ leader, Bello Turji, is reportedly preparing to launch fresh attacks and movements across communities in the eastern axis of Sokoto State following the receding of seasonal floods that had previously restricted his operations.

A usually reliable source said that the disappearance of floodwaters around river crossings between Isa and Sabon Birni local government areas had reopened access routes that were earlier impassable for several months.

According to the source, Turji usually intensifies movements and visits to the affected villages at the end of the rainy season each year. The flooding, which had made many riverbanks and low-lying areas inaccessible, had served as a natural barrier to his fighters, most of whom avoid swimming or using boats for crossings.

“The receding water has now made it possible for Turji to resume direct movement across more than 50 communities situated between Isa and Sabon Birni,” the source said.

The source further disclosed that the bandits’ kingpin was restructuring his operational network, replacing some of his local representatives in the eastern part of Sokoto State.

It was learnt that one of such changes occurred in the Gangara axis, where Turji reportedly replaced one of his field commanders, known as Jammo Ba’ki, with another fighter identified as Arne Qulu.

“Our findings indicate that Turji is reorganising his command structure to consolidate his influence in the eastern corridor of Sokoto,” the source added.

Sources also confirmed heightened surveillance and movement of Turji’s men in rural areas within Sabon Birni and Isa LGAs, though security forces are yet to record any confrontation with the group in recent days. (Zagazola, but headline rejigged)