Bandit Leaders Linked to Katsina Massacre Surface at Peace Talks in Faskari
Notorious bandit commanders allegedly behind recent killings in Katsina State were spotted on Sunday at a peace dialogue held in Faskari Local Government Area.
Among those present was Babaro, identified as a key figure in multiple attacks across Kankara and Malumfashi. He is accused of orchestrating last week’s massacre in Mantau, Malumfashi LGA, where gunmen stormed a mosque during evening prayers, leaving 32 worshippers dead and several others injured.
According to security analysts, the meeting produced a peace deal between residents of Faskari and armed groups. The reported terms include:
mutual forgiveness,
unarmed access for bandits into communities,
freedom for residents to farm and herd livestock safely, and
the release of hostages without ransom.
Other notorious warlords such as Ado Aleru and Kwashen-garwa were also said to be in attendance.
Kwashen-garwa, a native of Kamfanin Daudawa village in Faskari, has long been linked to kidnappings, killings, and raids across forest zones in Katsina and neighbouring states. Despite his violent history, he reportedly presented himself at the meeting as a supporter of dialogue.
Security observers note that while some locals are hopeful the peace initiative could ease years of violence, others remain sceptical of the sincerity of the same men long accused of destabilising the North-West and North-Central.
As of the time of filing this report, authorities have not issued any official statement on the peace meeting.
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