Bandit loyal to Bello Turji levies Zamfara communities N200m, or else…

A notorious bandit leader loyal to most wanted terrorist, Bello Turji, Dantsito, has placed a levy of N200m on communities in the Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State with a two-week timeline for them to pay up or stand the risk of being attacked.

According to security and counter-insurgency expert in the region, Zagazola Makama, following the threat by Dansito, residents of the communities are now living in fear, with some already fleeing for safety.

Makama who quoted a resident of one of the affected communities, said apart from the monetary levies, Dantsito also demanded for food items and medical supplies.

“Dantsito, whose name means “the little” in English, is the younger brother of the notorious bandit kingpin, Ado Aliero, and a strong ally of Bello Turji,” Makama said.

“Both siblings who are natives of the area, have long terrorised communities from their hideout in the forests near the Gusau-Funtuwa Road.

“Each community has been assigned a specific amount, with threats to burn down villages if payment is not made within two weeks.

“Some of the affected communities face levies as high as N14m in Dankolo, N15m in Sungawa, and N20m in Kunchin Kalgo, while others have been ordered to pay amounts ranging between N2.5m and N10m.

“Sources reveal that some residents have begun making partial payments, while those unable to afford cash are providing foodstuffs like beans and maize while thousands have fled the communities for safety.

“One of the residents said this is not the first time they’ve imposed levies. When they run out of funds, they return to extort them again and many who cannot pay have fled to safer areas, leaving their homes behind.”

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