A notorious bandits commander, Isya Akwashi Garwa, armed with an AK-47 and ammunition, has released 28 abducted persons in Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State following a peace arrangement.
Garwa handed over the captives to the local government council officials on Wednesday.
Those freed were largely residents of Mairua, Kanen-haki, and Yar Dabaru communities, who had been held in captivity by the bandits.
Local authorities confirmed that the release was the outcome of ongoing reconciliation efforts aimed at restoring peace and reducing violent attacks in the region.
A security source, Zagazola Makama, also disclosed on X that community leaders in Faskari welcomed the development as a positive signal, urging both sides to sustain the “peace process.”
They also appealed to the bandits leader to prevail on other groups still carrying out attacks in the area to desist.
The source explained that a council official, who requested anonymity, confirmed that the captives were released in the afternoon without any ransom.
“The captives were released this afternoon without any ransom being paid. The bandit leader fulfilled his promise under the peace talks,” he said.
Meanwhile, residents expressed relief over the safe return of the abductees, with some calling for stronger security guarantees to build on the gesture.
