Notorious Bandit Leaders Surrender to Nigerian Army in Katsina, Release Hostages

In a major breakthrough, several notorious bandit leaders have surrendered to the Nigerian Army in Katsina State and freed their hostages, signaling a step toward peace in the region.

Numerous infamous bandit leaders who have been terrorizing the Batsari, Safana, and Jibia Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Katsina State are reported to have surrendered to the Nigerian Army.

According to Zagazola Makama, a publication specializing in counter-insurgency matters related to the Lake Chad region, among the bandits who surrendered were Abu Radda, Umar Black, Abdullahi Lankai, Jijjige, and Dabar Musa Dan Gandu. All of these individuals previously operated from the Jibia axis.

According to security sources, the bandits chose to accept a peace agreement and surrender as a result of ongoing military operations in the area. In doing so, they relinquished their weapons to the troops and freed several hostages.

The former bandits have requested that the government provide alternative livelihood opportunities, proposing involvement in projects like building markets and hospitals. They pledged to cease their criminal activities and reintegrate into society.

Their surrender was reportedly coordinated by the National Community for Security and Societal Advancement in Katsina (NCSOSACK), under the leadership of Hamisa Batsari.