At least 23 bandits were killed in a bloody clash between two rival armed groups in Zamfara State, northwest Nigeria. The intense three-hour gunfight erupted on Saturday, May 11th, near the Sunke Forest in Anka County.
The reported fight involved factions led by notorious bandit kingpins Bello Kaura and Kachalla Najaja. Kaura was resisting Najaja’s encroachment on his territory, highlighting the ongoing struggle for dominance among bandit groups in Zamfara.
Zamfara has long been plagued by terrorism and banditry, with various groups vying for control and resources in the State. Bello Kaura has been a major source of fear and displacement for residents in the area for several years, demanding ransom and protection fees.
According to local sources, Kaura’s group successfully repelled Najaja’s attack, forcing them to retreat towards Bukuyum. Eyewitnesses confirmed the heavy gunfire exchange and the high number of casualties. Kaura lost 17 men while Najaja lost six fighters.
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
