Fresh concerns have emerged over security in eastern Sokoto State following allegations that fighters loyal to notorious bandit leader Bello Turji are receiving weapons and combat training in communities near the Sokoto-Zamfara border.

The claims were contained in an intelligence report released by Basharu Altine, the Sokoto State Coordinator of the Movement for Social Justice and Good Governance. According to the report, the training activities are reportedly taking place in communities stretching from Bingabale Kudu to Bafarawa East and Bargaja.

Altine alleged that some of Turji’s close associates, including Illa Manawa and Dodo, believed to be his younger brother, are involved in coordinating the exercises. The report claimed that the fighters are being trained on the use of newly acquired weapons, including sophisticated arms allegedly deployed in recent confrontations with security operatives.

The report further suggested that a fresh batch of weapons and newly recruited fighters had recently arrived in the area. Some of the recruits were said to possess advanced combat skills and experience in handling sophisticated weaponry.

Altine also alleged that night-vision equipment linked to Turji formed part of the supplies delivered to camps operated by the group. He named two suspected bandit commanders, Haru Dole and Ibrahim Chimo, as individuals allegedly connected to the procurement and movement of the weapons.

According to the report, intelligence findings indicate a growing alliance between Chimo and Turji, raising fears that the group may be seeking to strengthen its influence across eastern Sokoto.

The security advocate warned that the alleged collaboration could pose a greater threat to communities in the region, with intelligence sources reportedly expressing concerns about possible attacks on some local government headquarters before the peak of the rainy season.

He called on security agencies to intensify surveillance and take proactive measures to verify the intelligence and prevent potential threats to lives and property.

As of the time of reporting, security authorities had not issued an official response to the allegations, while the claims had yet to be independently verified.