The heavy gun duel took place near Bakin Gulbi, close to Tungar Yakuba in Sokoto State.
Nigerian troops have engaged terrorists and bandits led by Turji Bello in a gun fight.
The incident happened on Tuesday morning.
The heavy gun duel took place near Bakin Gulbi, close to Tungar Yakuba in Sokoto State.
Disclosing this, counter-terrorism publication focused on the Lake Chad area, Zagazola Makama, said the duel also involved residents of Gatawa.
Makama said: “Intense fighting has erupted early this morning, starting around 6:00 a.m., as residents of Gatawa and Nigerian soldiers engaged in a fierce battle with notorious bandit leader Bello Turji and his fighters.
“Further updates on the situation are expected as both sides continue their fight.
“Prior to the attack, Bello Turji held a clandestine meeting in the village of Dan Tasakko, near Gatawa, shortly after sunset yesterday.
“Local sources say the meeting involved key figures from his network, raising alarms about potential security threats in the area.”