Notorious bandit commander Kachalla Sharme killed in fratricidal clash

Kachalla Tukur Sharme, a notorious bandit commander, has been killed in a violent clash between rival bandit groups, according to Samuel Aruwan, the Overseeing Commissioner for the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs in Kaduna State.

Aruwan disclosed to journalists that Sharme, along with two other bandits, was killed during the fierce gunfight, which also led to the escape of some kidnapped individuals.

The clash is the result of ongoing internal strife within bandit groups operating in the region.

The Kaduna State government credited the breakthrough to diligent follow-up operations and extensive use of human intelligence networks. This development is seen as a significant blow to banditry in the state, as Sharme was considered a high-ranking figure within the criminal network.

The Kaduna State government has continued to intensify efforts to curb banditry and secure the release of kidnapped citizens.

He said, “According to intelligence sources, five bandits were injured in the clash and are presently lurking in the area, seeking paramedics to manage their wounds.”

“Sharme, a notorious bandit who had butchered many citizens, kidnapped hundreds and rustled innumerable herds of cattle, met his end in a battle between his group and an opposing gang. The clash occurred at the weekend, around a location referred to as ‘Hambakko’, in the Rijana and Kaso Forests which span Kachia and parts of Chikun and Kajuru LGAs.”

“Sharme had several times escaped the crosshairs of security forces by a mere whisker, and remained hotly sought after before he was gunned down by fellow terrorists.”

“Sharme and his gang of bandits were largely responsible for attacks, killings and kidnappings in Millenium City, Maraban Rido, Kujama, Kajuru, Maro, villages in Kateri general area and other locations in adjoining LGAs of Kagarko, Kachia and Birnin Gwari. This was in addition to his criminal acts in neighbouring states of Katsina and Niger which were also left reeling from the waves of his terrorism.”

“One of the most heinous acts perpetrated by Kachalla Sharme was the kidnapping of 121 students of Bethel Baptist High School, Kujama, Kaduna State on 5th July 2021.

In the course of repelling Sharme and his gang of terrorists, two personnel of the security forces paid the supreme price.”

“Residents of Rijana, Kaso, Kasarami, Jaka da-Rabi, Kajuru and Dutse general areas and beyond, are warned not render any assistance to suspicious persons seeking treatment for gun wounds. They are urged instead to contact the nearest security forces or reach the Kaduna State Security Operations Room on the following lines: 09034000060,08170189999.”

“As is standard practice, such information received will be treated with the highest sense of confidentiality.”