Notorious bandit leaders surrender as Nigerian Army records major breakthrough in Katsina

In a major step toward restoring peace in Nigeria’s North-West region, several high-profile bandit leaders have voluntarily laid down their arms and released kidnapped victims, according to an official statement by the Nigerian Army.

This significant development was revealed on Sunday via a post on the Army’s verified Facebook page. The surrender marks a positive outcome of a collaborative disarmament initiative spearheaded by Operation Fasin Yamma — a military operation focused on tackling insecurity in the region.

The Army credited the success to the joint efforts between the military and key stakeholders in Katsina State, including traditional rulers, community leaders, and government officials who have been working behind the scenes to promote dialogue and non-violent resolutions.

“As part of the ongoing arms surrender and disengagement initiative led by the leadership of Operation Fasan Yamma in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, several notorious terrorist kingpins operating in Dan Musa LGA—identified as Kamulu Buzaru, Manore, Nagwaggo, Lalbi, Alhaji Sani, Dogo Baidu, Dogo Nahalle, and Abdulkadir Black—voluntarily surrendered their arms and handed over kidnapped victims on 14 June 2025,” the Army said.

“The individuals expressed their commitment to renounce banditry and embrace peaceful coexistence. The surrendered weapons have been secured in custody.

“As part of the gesture, the group released 16 kidnapped persons, comprising seven women and nine children, and pledged to release the remaining captives in their custody by 15 June 2025. All released individuals have been handed over to the appropriate local government authorities. The security situation in the area remains stable, with troops maintaining a strong presence and continuous monitoring to ensure sustained peace and stability.”

The Army did not specify the exact number of remaining captives still in custody but said efforts are ongoing to secure their release.

This development comes amid increased pressure on armed groups operating in the region and ongoing peace-building efforts between security forces and local communities.