Notorious Bandit Leader, Yellow Dan-Bokolo, Killed in Joint Military Operation in Zamfara
Shinkafi, Zamfara State – One of northern Nigeria’s most feared bandit leaders, Kachalla Yellow Dan-Bokolo, has been confirmed dead following a coordinated security operation in rural Shinkafi, Zamfara State. Dan-Bokolo, aged 27, died on June 29, 2025, from injuries sustained during an intense confrontation involving local volunteer forces and national security agencies, acting on credible intelligence.
A first cousin and chief lieutenant to infamous warlord Bello Turji, Dan-Bokolo was widely regarded as more dangerous, ruthless, and unpredictable than Turji himself. He was reportedly married to four wives and fathered 12 children.
A Legacy of Terror and Drug-Fuelled Violence
What distinguished Dan-Bokolo from his contemporaries was his heavy addiction to hard drugs, especially pentazocine — a substance locally referred to as “pentameric injections.” His drug use desensitized him to suffering and reportedly fueled sadistic pleasure in killings, abductions, and sexual violence.
Security sources described him as a hyper-violent figure whose camp had grown to over 350 fighters operating between Sokoto and Zamfara states.
Trained by Notorious Bandit Warlords
Dan-Bokolo received his combat training under Shehu Rakep, a legendary arms smuggler and first-generation bandit based in Dangulbi, Maru LGA. Fighters from Rakep’s tutelage were known for guerrilla-style warfare and battlefield resilience.
In contrast, Bello Turji was mentored by the late Kachalla Halilu Sububu. Although both leaders often collaborated, ideological differences emerged — most notably when Turji attempted dialogue with local communities in April 2022. Dan-Bokolo openly rejected this peace process and undermined the initiative, believing in a violent, uncompromising approach.
Strongholds and Crimes
Dan-Bokolo’s main base was in Kagara, Shinkafi LGA, with operational control over Bafarawa, Kamarawa, Gebe, and Dan-Zage — extending deep into western Shinkafi in Zamfara and parts of Sokoto State.
Though separate from Turji’s camp, the two bandits coordinated joint operations including:
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The December 2021 burning of over 30 passengers aboard a Sabon Birni-bound bus.
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The March 2022 sacking of Gangara village and dethronement of its traditional ruler.
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Numerous attacks on military outposts in Shinkafi, Isa, and Sabon Birni.
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Systematic cattle rustling and mass abductions.
A Turning Point in Nigeria’s War on Banditry
Security analysts describe Dan-Bokolo’s death as a major milestone in Nigeria’s counter-banditry war, particularly in the North-West. His demise is expected to weaken Bello Turji’s influence and operational capacity.
Observers say this could compel Turji to either flee under mounting military pressure or consider renewed dialogue as his options narrow.
With one of the most brutal figures in Nigeria’s bandit ecosystem eliminated, citizens in Sokoto and Zamfara states can breathe a sigh of relief — though vigilance remains paramount as military operations continue.
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