The Katsina State Government has denied involvement in any peace negotiations with bandits, following reports of an alleged peace deal involving notorious bandit leaders in the Batsari Local Government Area.
Naija News understands that the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Bala Salisu clarified during a telephone interview with Daily Trust that the state government maintains its policy against negotiating with criminals but is open to reintegrating those who voluntarily surrender and renounce violence.
Salisu said, “We were not part of any peace deal.
“The government’s position has always been that anyone who renounces violence and surrenders their weapons would be considered. But the government would not go asking to negotiate with any bandit.”
Despite the government’s stance, reports indicate that a peace meeting involving military leadership, DSS representatives, traditional authorities, and residents took place on Sunday in Kofa village, west of Batsari town.
According to a resident who attended the meeting, “The bandits demanded safe access to our communities and pledged to stop their attacks. They surrendered weapons and released captives, claiming this was the beginning of a comprehensive peace process.”
Among the bandit leaders who reportedly surrendered were Lamu Saudo, Abdulhamid Dan Da, Umar Black, and Abu Radda. During the meeting, they handed over weapons and released kidnapped victims as part of their commitment to peace.
Daily Trust noted that the Public Relations Officer of the 17 Brigade Army, Lt. Lawal confirmed the development, crediting sustained military operations for the bandits’ decision to seek peace.
“The continuous pressure applied by our forces left the bandits with no choice but to surrender and comply,” Lt. Lawal stated.