Over 100 kidnapped victims have been released by notorious bandit leader Bello Turji in Zamfara State.
The move follows renewed peace talks between his group, community elders, and security officials.
Notorious bandit leader Bello Turji has reportedly released over 100 kidnapped victims in what appears to be a renewed peace effort in Zamfara State.
Security officials told counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama that Turji freed the captives after several peace meetings between his group and community elders. The discussions were part of a government-backed program known as Operation Safe Corridor, which focuses on dialogue and reconciliation in the North West region.
The released victims, including men, women, and children, were handed over to local authorities before being taken to a hospital for medical checks and then reunited with their families.
A source involved in the negotiation explained that the move was part of an agreement with Turji’s group to end attacks and accept peace in affected areas. “It is a gradual process aimed at restoring trust,” the source said.
The source added that 36 people were first released, followed by eight others, before the remaining captives were freed, bringing the total to more than 100. More releases are expected as peace discussions continue with Turji’s representatives.
Security agencies are closely monitoring the development to confirm the sincerity of the deal and ensure that no group uses the peace process as an excuse to reorganize or rearm in the region.
