The Katsina State Government has issued a stern warning to bandits who recently surrendered their arms, emphasizing that they must adhere to the peace agreement or face serious consequences.
Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mu'azu, made this declaration while addressing newsmen on Monday, stressing the government's zero-tolerance policy for any breach of trust.
"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," Mu'azu stated firmly.
Progress in Some Local Government Areas
According to the commissioner, bandit leaders from Jibia, Batsari, and DanMusa local government areas have already accepted the peace initiative and surrendered their weapons, bringing relative peace to these regions.
He highlighted that Governor Dikko Radda has prioritized security matters and is implementing robust measures to address the situation.
However, Mu'azu warned that military operations would continue in areas still experiencing attacks, including Kankara, Faskari, Sabuwa, Dandume, and Safana.
"The government will continue to carry out military operations in troubled areas... If they keep attacking, we will respond accordingly," he emphasized.
Support for Genuine Repentants
The commissioner assured that the government is willing to support those who genuinely abandon violence but will maintain a strict stance against anyone who violates the peace agreement.
"If they break their promises, we'll return to treating them the way we used to," Mu'azu reiterated.
The Katsina authorities have called on residents to support ongoing efforts to establish lasting peace in communities affected by banditry.
In a recent development, 10 known bandit leaders in DanMusa surrendered their weapons and released kidnapped victims, including a seven-month pregnant woman.
This peace initiative represents a significant step in the state's ongoing battle against armed banditry, which has plagued several northwestern Nigerian states for years.
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