Several notorious bandit leaders responsible for terrorizing Batsari, Safana, and Jibia Local Government Areas of Katsina State have reportedly surrendered to the Nigerian Army.
According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication focused on the Lake Chad region, the surrendered bandit leaders include Abu Radda, Umar Black, Abdullahi Lankai, Jijjige, and Dabar Musa Dan Gandu, all of whom had operated from the Jibia axis.
Military Pressure Forces Surrender
Security sources quoted by Zagazola Makama revealed that the bandits surrendered due to sustained military operations in the region, which left them with no choice but to accept a peace deal.
Weapons Handed Over, Hostages Released
As part of their surrender, the former bandits handed over their weapons to the troops and also released several hostages they had abducted.
They further appealed to the government for alternative means of livelihood, requesting to be engaged in the construction of markets and hospitals as part of their reintegration process.
The surrender was reportedly facilitated by the National Community for Security and Societal Advancement in Katsina (NCSOSACK), led by Hamisa Batsari, which played a key role in negotiating peace between the bandits and security forces.
800 Boko Haram Fighters Undergoing Deradicalization
Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) announced on Monday that 800 former Boko Haram fighters who had surrendered are currently undergoing a deradicalization program in preparation for their reintegration into society.
With ongoing military operations and reintegration efforts, authorities continue to seek long-term solutions to insecurity in the region.
