By MOHAMMED DANBAB
Bandit Commander Reportedly Bows to Pressure as Community Tension Escalates
A major breakthrough was recorded in Katsina State security efforts on Wednesday after the notorious bandits’ commander, Isiya Kwashen Garwa, released 37 abducted persons held in captivity across parts of Bakori Local Government Area.
The release, confirmed by multiple local sources and counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama, brought a moment of relief to communities struggling with repeated raids and mass kidnappings.
How the Abductees Were Released
According to Makama, the abductees—most of whom were men and women seized in recent attacks—regained their freedom after spending several days in the bush under the control of Garwa’s militia. They were taken during coordinated assaults on rural settlements along the volatile Bakori–Funtua axis, a corridor now associated with rising bandit activity.
A community leader who witnessed the return of the victims explained that sustained pressure from local negotiators and the fear of a large-scale military crackdown forced the bandit commander to reconsider holding the captives.
“We received them on Wednesday afternoon. Many were tired and traumatized, but grateful to be alive,” the source said. “For days, the entire area lived in fear because we knew the bandits were holding people deep inside their hideouts.”
The victims, some of whom sustained injuries, are now receiving medical attention and psychological support.
Rising Kidnappings Heighten Fear
Residents say the Bakori–Funtua axis has become one of the worst-hit areas in the state. Despite several military operations, bandits continue to strike villages, abduct farmers, and block rural roads.
Just last week, multiple communities sent distress calls to authorities after Garwa’s fighters launched simultaneous raids, snatching villagers and setting farms ablaze during confrontations with vigilantes.
Local analysts believe the release of the 37 abductees may be linked to renewed military pressure around known bandit enclaves. However, many residents insist the state and federal governments must intensify operations before the situation deteriorates further.
Security Agencies Yet to Provide Official Statement
As at the time of filing this report, security agencies in Katsina had not issued a formal statement on the release. Nonetheless, sources within the local vigilante network confirmed that the victims were handed over peacefully and without ransom, although there are unverified claims of informal negotiation.
The development has fueled calls for consistent security patrols, better intelligence gathering, and the full dismantling of hideouts across the state’s forests.
Communities Appeal for Government Intervention
Villagers across Bakori LGA say they remain on edge. They warn that unless the government sustains pressure on Garwa’s network and other armed groups, more residents may be abducted during farming activities or night raids.
A youth leader in the area said:
“We cannot continue like this. Today they released 37 people, but tomorrow they may abduct 50. Government must reinforce security here. Our people are scared to sleep at night or go to the farm.”
He urged military authorities to maintain their momentum and flush out the remaining fighters operating between Katsina, Zamfara, and parts of Kaduna.
Victims Recount Ordeal
Some of the freed abductees briefly shared their experiences, describing long walks through rough terrain, hunger, and intimidation. Several said the bandits frequently moved them to avoid detection by surveillance teams.
“We were constantly told that no one was coming for us,” one victim said, “but when we heard that soldiers were moving closer, even the bandits became uneasy.”
Humanitarian groups have been alerted and are assessing the victims’ needs.
A Temporary Relief Amid Persistent Danger
Although the release of the 37 abductees marks a significant moment for Bakori residents, community leaders stress that the region remains vulnerable. Bandits continue to occupy several forest belts, launching surprise attacks on soft targets.
Security observers believe more operations will be needed to prevent Garwa and other commanders from regrouping.
For now, residents are holding onto relief—yet bracing for what may come next.
#KatsinaBandits #BakoriAbductions #IsiyaKwashenGarwa #NigeriaSecurity #BanditryCrisis #NorthwestNigeria #BreakingNews
