Bandit leaders surrender arms, free kidnap victims in Katsina

Bandit leaders surrender arms, free kidnap victims in Katsina

In a significant development in the fight against insurgency in Nigeria’s North-West, several notorious bandit leaders have surrendered their weapons and released kidnapped victims, according to the Nigerian Army.

In a statement posted on its verified Facebook page on Sunday, the Army said the move was the result of a collaborative disarmament initiative led by the leadership of Operation Fasin Yamma in conjunction with stakeholders in Katsina State.

“As part of the ongoing arms surrender and disengagement initiative led by the leadership of Operation Fasan Yamma in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, several notorious terrorist kingpins operating in Dan Musa LGA—identified as Kamulu Buzaru, Manore, Nagwaggo, Lalbi, Alhaji Sani, Dogo Baidu, Dogo Nahalle, and Abdulkadir Black—voluntarily surrendered their arms and handed over kidnapped victims on 14 June 2025,” the Army said.

READ ALSO:

• Bandits abduct Wife of village head, 14-year-old son abducted in Kaduna
• Tanker drivers stop fuel loading at Dangote Refinery over Lekki E-call
• Nigerians living in India desperate to return home, allege abuse, extortion

“The individuals expressed their commitment to renounce banditry and embrace peaceful coexistence. The surrendered weapons have been secured in custody.

“As part of the gesture, the group released 16 kidnapped persons, comprising seven women and nine children, and pledged to release the remaining captives in their custody by 15 June 2025. All released individuals have been handed over to the appropriate local government authorities. The security situation in the area remains stable, with troops maintaining a strong presence and continuous monitoring to ensure sustained peace and stability.”

The Army did not specify the exact number of remaining captives still in custody but said efforts are ongoing to secure their release.

This development comes amid increased pressure on armed groups operating in the region and ongoing peace-building efforts between security forces and local communities.

Bandit leaders surrender arms, free kidnap victims in Katsina