A notorious bandit leader, Isya Akwashi Garwa, has reportedly released 28 abducted persons in Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State following a peace arrangement with local authorities.

Garwa, armed with an AK-47 rifle and ammunition, handed over the victims to officials of the local council on Wednesday.

Naijaonpoint understands that those freed were mostly residents of Mairua, Kanen-haki, and Yar Dabaru communities, who had been held captive for weeks.

Bandit Leader in Katsina

A security analyst, Zagazola Makama, confirmed the development on 𝕏, saying community leaders in Faskari described the release as a positive signal, and urged both sides to sustain the peace process.

Local authorities confirmed that the release was the outcome of ongoing reconciliation efforts aimed at restoring peace and reducing violent attacks in the region.

“They also appealed to the bandit leader to prevail on other groups still carrying out attacks in the area to desist,” Makama added.

A council official, who asked not to be named, said the abductees were freed without any ransom.

“The captives were released this afternoon without any ransom being paid. The bandit leader fulfilled his promise under the peace talks,” the official disclosed.

Residents expressed relief at the safe return of their neighbours but called for stronger security measures to consolidate on the gesture and prevent further abductions.