Scores of armed bandits were reportedly killed yesterday as the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) bombed their base in Zamfara.

The victims were said to be members of the deadly banditry lynchpin, Muhammad Bello, aka Turji.

The kingpin, it was learnt, narrowly escaped the bombardment which left many others injured.

The attack which was carried out at Fakai area where Turji was suspected to be residing was said to have been carried out by two NAF fighter jets, following a reliable intelligence.

The notorious North-west Nigerian banditry kingpin, was reported to have   relocated his headquarters from Fakai in Zurmi, Zamfara State, to the east of Isa local government area of Sokoto State last year.

The 28-year old is a ruthless bandit operating in Sokoto and Zamfara States. He had on different occasions rejected peace deals from the state governments.

The only time he said he was open to dialogue was when Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Ahmed Gumi, visited his camp in Zurmi (Zamfara State).