Recently, his fighters carried out a brutal raid on Tidibale village in Isa Local Government Area, forcing residents to flee amid heavy gunfire. Security sources suggest this is part of Turji’s effort to regain control over communities in the region following significant losses in the December operation.
The U.S. strikes, conducted with Nigerian forces, reportedly killed at least 155 members of the Lakurawa armed group, with around 200 others missing. The operation involved Tomahawk missiles fired from a U.S. Navy destroyer in the Gulf of Guinea, hitting areas in Isa, Tangaza, and Tambuwal. Tangaza, a key Lakurawa stronghold, suffered the highest casualties, with two missile strikes killing many fighters.
Despite these losses, Lakurawa remained active, launching an attack in Kebbi State on December 31 that left at least 21 civilians dead. Meanwhile, Turji’s survival appears to have encouraged him to intensify attacks in Isa, a critical area for his operations.
The U.S. operation specifically targeted Lakurawa and did not involve other jihadist groups like Boko Haram or Ansaru. Investigations into the full impact of the strikes are still ongoing as more details emerge from affected communities.
