Armed bandits in Katsina State have held a ‘peace meeting’ with members of Fankama community in Faskari local government area.
The meeting, according to a native source in Faskari, was convened to broker a truce between the terrorists and Fankama residents.
“The parley was informed by the increase in cases of abductions for ransom of Fankama community people.
“But Alhamdulillah, the discussion was fruitful. Both the bandits and residents of Fankama were able to understand each other. And everyone dispersed safely after the meeting,” the source say.
Report say that some of the bandits clad themselves in military camouflage, and wielded assorted ammunition during the ‘peace dialogue’.
In another development, the Defence Headquarters has reacted to a video circulating on social media where some soldiers were seen allowing bandits to pass through designated routes unmolested.
Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau in a press statement
Said the military was investigating the video to confirm its authenticity as regards the soldiers seen in uniform.
He disclosed that the DHQ is aware of the resolve of some bandits to repent and hand over their weapons to the authorities. This is yielding good results and is ongoing.
Brigadier General Gusau reaffirmed that the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa assures Nigerians of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to engage in every lawful means possible to ensure peace and stability reign in our dear nation.
“The DHQ assures Nigerians that its non-kinetic measures aimed at the restoration of peace are yielding results, with several bandits and other criminal elements surrendering to authority.
“Governments at all levels are encouraged to allow bandits genuinely willing to surrender to do so while the window is still open. Defence Headquarters is doing everything possible to restore peace and tranquillity all over the country and urges all citizens to remain calm and be law-abiding,” he said.
