Just in: Bandit Leader Frees 28 Hostages in Katsina After Peace Negotiations

Twenty-eight people who were kidnapped in Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State have regained their freedom following a peace deal with a notorious bandit commander.

The victims, mostly residents of Mairua, Kanen-haki, and Yar Dabaru villages, were released on Wednesday by the gang led by its leader, identified as Isya Akwashi Garwa. They were handed over directly to local government officials.

According to reports by Zagazola, no ransom was paid for their release. Instead, the gesture came as part of a reconciliation initiative aimed at curbing violent attacks and restoring calm in the area.

Community leaders in Faskari welcomed the development, describing it as an encouraging step towards peace. They, however, appealed to Garwa to prevail on other bandit groups still launching assaults in the region to lay down their arms.

A council official, who requested anonymity, confirmed the release, saying: “The hostages were set free this afternoon without payment. The bandit leader kept to the terms of the dialogue.”

Residents expressed joy at the safe return of their loved ones but also called for more robust security measures to ensure the peace effort is not derailed.