Several high-profile bandit leaders who have terrorized Batsari, Safana, and Jibia Local Government Areas of Katsina State have surrendered their weapons following sustained military offensives.
Security analyst Zagazola Makama, who disclosed the development on his Twitter page.
He reported that the bandits, including Abu Radda, Umar Black, Abdullahi Lankai, Jijjige, and Dabar Musa Dan Gandu, decided to lay down their arms after facing relentless military pressure.
An intelligence source confirmed that the surrender was a result of “the military’s intensified operations that have significantly weakened their strongholds.”
The source added, “Many of them realized they had no option but to seek peace as security forces continue to tighten their grip on the region.”
During the disarmament process, the repentant bandits appealed to the government to assist them in reintegrating into society.
“We want a chance to live peacefully. We need markets, hospitals, and access to clean water so we can start a new life,” one of the surrendering bandits reportedly said.
Their surrender was mediated by the National Community for Security and Societal Advancement in Katsina (NCSOSACK), an organization led by Comrade Hamisa S. Batsari, which played a crucial role in engaging affected communities in security discussions.
As part of their surrender, the former militants handed over their weapons to the military and released several hostages. They also vowed to end all criminal activities.
A senior military officer, while acknowledging their decision, stated, “We welcome their surrender, but we will not stop our operations.
Those who refuse to disarm will continue to face military action until peace is fully restored in Katsina, Zamfara, Sokoto, and the entire North West region.”