Bandits have released several abductees in Faskari Local Government Area, Katsina State, following negotiations, according to reports.

The development was confirmed on Wednesday through a post on X by Bakatsine, a conflict and crisis journalist specializing in insecurity in northwest Nigeria.

According to Bakatsine, notorious bandit leader Isiya Akwashi Garwa personally handed over the victims to local authorities. "Bandits have released many abductees in Faskari LGA, Katsina State, without ransom after negotiations. Bandits leader, Isiya Akwashi Garwa, handed them over to local authorities. Most of the freed captives are from Mairua, Kanon-Haki & Yar Dabaru villages," he wrote.

According to Daily Post, the release comes after Garwa, previously declared wanted by the Defence Headquarters, accepted a peace deal in Katsina State. The bandit leader's name appears among the 19 most-wanted terrorists and bandits in Nigeria.

READ MORE : Anambra Govt Unveils N3.5bn Empowerment Plan For 8,300 Youths

Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency expert and security analyst, stated that Garwa had appeared in Hayin Gada community, Faskari, presenting himself as an advocate for dialogue.

Makama noted that Garwa had long been associated with killings, kidnappings, and raids across Katsina and neighboring states. "Despite his bloody record, Garwa's recent posture signals a possible shift in approach, as local leaders and security stakeholders weigh the implications of his acceptance of peace terms. Reactions remain divided. While some residents see the development as a chance to restore calm in long-troubled communities, others question the sincerity of the bandit leader, recalling the atrocities attributed to his group," Makama added.