The Katsina State Government has issued a stern warning to bandits who recently surrendered their arms, cautioning them to abide by the peace agreement or face decisive consequences.
Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mu’azu, gave the warning on Monday while addressing journalists in Katsina.
Mu’azu disclosed that some bandit leaders from Jibia, Batsari, and DanMusa local government areas had embraced the state’s peace initiative and handed over their weapons, which he said has led to relative calm in those areas.
However, he stated clearly that the government would not hesitate to respond forcefully if any of the repentant bandits violate the peace deal.
“Let me also make it clear that in case they renege on their promises, we are going to deal with them as we used to. That is the position of the government,” the commissioner said.
He reiterated that Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has made security a top priority and is adopting a dual approach — supporting peace where possible while intensifying military operations in flashpoint areas.
According to him, military operations will continue in troubled areas such as Kankara, Faskari, Sabuwa, Dandume, and Safana, where armed attacks persist.
“The government will continue to carry out military operations in troubled areas… If they keep attacking, we will respond accordingly,” Mu’azu warned.
He emphasized that the administration remains open to dialogue with those genuinely ready to abandon violence but will be strict and unforgiving toward any breach of trust.
“If they break their promises, we’ll return to treating them the way we used to,” he said.
The state government also urged residents to cooperate with security agencies and support ongoing efforts to restore peace across affected communities.
Recently, ten notorious bandit leaders in DanMusa reportedly surrendered and released several kidnapped victims, including a woman who was seven months pregnant. Authorities described the development as a sign of progress in the state’s peace and security strategy.
