Danbokolo, a cousin of Bello Turji, is regarded in the North West as the most dreaded bandit in the region.
Security sources said Danbokolo and more than 173 bandits were killed after the blistering surprise attack by the volunteer forces.
According to the sources, Danbokolo who sustained serious injuries during the attack, died on Saturday.
His death and that of several fighters loyal to him is being celebrated by residents of Kurya District whom he had terrorised for yesrs.
One villager said: “We are in serious celebrations mood. It is hard to believe that Danbokolo, a man whose name used to strike fear in our hearts, is no more. I can authoritatively tell you that Danbokolo is the man behind the mask. He is the overall Commander. Turji merely communicates, while dreaded Danbokolo is the executioner of all the evil.
“Not only Danbokolo was killed, at least, 173 bandits loyal to him have been killed and buried within the week and several of them have fled the community. We see them running away after every raid on their hideouts,” he said.
Another resident confirmed that “known loyalists of Turji are now in a state of fear and confusion, and that some are now seeking to surrender as they see the end in sight.”
He said: “This is the first time we believe that these bandits will soon be gone for good. Bello Turji has no hiding place. Knowing that his days are numbered, he and some of his foot soldiers have begun to desperately beg for amnesty. “
These strikes by the volunteer forces on Turji’s main stronghold are the first since the onset of organised banditry in the region.
