Notorious Bandit Leader Kachalla Bello Reportedly Killed in Katsina Factional Clash

By Sabiu Abdullahi

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

The incident reportedly occurred on Tuesday evening when two rival bandit factions engaged in a fierce gun battle, according to local sources cited by counter-insurgency publication Zagazola Makama.

Bello was said to have been among those killed in the exchange of gunfire, although details surrounding the circumstances of his reported death remained unclear as of Wednesday.

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

According to the report, Bello allegedly abducted residents from their farmlands and compelled them to work on his farm before eventually releasing them.

His reported death is expected to bring relief to communities that have suffered intimidation and other criminal activities attributed to his group.

However, security authorities had yet to independently confirm the killing or establish the full circumstances surrounding the clash.

The incident also highlights continuing rivalries among armed groups operating in parts of Katsina State, where disputes over territory, resources and criminal activities have reportedly triggered violent confrontations.

When contacted by TheCable on Wednesday, the Katsina State Police Command spokesperson, Abubakar Sadiq-Aliyu, said he was unaware of the incident but would make enquiries.

“I am not aware of the incident; I will make an enquiry and call you back,” he said.

During a follow-up conversation about three hours later, Sadiq-Aliyu said he was still trying to establish the exact location of the reported clash so he could contact the relevant Divisional Police Officer.

He explained that identifying the precise location would help him reach the appropriate police division and verify the report.

As of the time of reporting, the police had not provided independent confirmation of Bello’s reported death.