A notorious bandit leader identified as Kachalla Bello has reportedly been killed during a gunfight between rival armed groups in a forest around Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State.

Local sources said the incident occurred on Tuesday evening, Nov. 10, when rival bandit factions engaged in a fierce exchange of gunfire in the forest.

Kachalla Bello was reportedly among those killed during the confrontation, although details surrounding the circumstances of his death remain sketchy.

The bandit leader was accused of terrorising farming communities through kidnappings and forced labour.

According to local sources, Bello specialised in abducting residents from their farmlands and compelling them to work on his farm before eventually releasing them.

His reported death is expected to bring relief to communities that have endured years of intimidation and criminal activities attributed to his group.

However, the circumstances surrounding the reported killing have yet to be independently confirmed by security authorities.

The incident also illustrates the persistent rivalries among armed groups operating in parts of Katsina State, where clashes over territory, resources and criminal operations have occasionally resulted in deadly confrontations. (Zagazola)

*PLS USE PHOTO USED BY ZAGAZOLA