Nigerian troops engaged in a gunfight with a gang of terrorists and bandits led by Turji Bello.
The incident occurred on Tuesday morning.
The intense gunfight took place near Bakin Gurbi, near Tungar Yakuba in Sokoto state.
Zagazola Makama, an anti-terrorism publication focused on the Lake Chad region, reported that Gatawa residents were also caught up in the skirmish.
Makama said: “Heavy fighting began around 6am this morning, with Gatawa residents and Nigerian soldiers engaged in fierce fighting with notorious bandit leader Bello Tulji and his fighters. “Further updates on the situation are expected as the two sides continue fighting.
“Before the attack, Bello Turji held a secret meeting in Dan Tasako village, near Gatawa, just after sunset yesterday.
“Local sources say the meeting was attended by key figures from his network, raising alarm over a possible security threat in the area.”