Some bandit leaders have released seventy abducted persons in line with the peace accord they signed with local community leaders, which is believed to have received the nod of the Katsina State government.

The affected communities, with the representatives of the state government, recently reached a peace arrangement with one of the notorious bandit leaders, Isiya Kwashen Garwa, who released 40 hostages in Faskari local government area.

This came two days after his gang freed 30 captives, bringing the total number of the victims freed by his camp to 70.

The latest release of the victims is contained in a trending video.

Some residents said the fresh release followed a meeting between community leaders and the repentant bandit’s camp aimed at sustaining the ongoing dialogue and reducing violent attacks in the state.

Despite the gesture, Garwa has raised concern over the military raid on Ruwangodiya community during last Friday’s prayers, alleging that Hausa and Fulani residents were injured.

He warned that the continued assault on his people could jeopardise the fragile peace deal.

State officials have yet to speak on the alleged military operation, but security sources maintained that the onslaughts in the area were targeted at criminal hideouts and designed to protect civilians.

The freed victims, many of whom were kidnapped from farming settlements around Faskari, are undergoing medical checks and debriefing before reuniting with their families

Leadership Newspaper