A feared bandit commander, Bello Turji, has freed around 100 people in what appears to be a fresh peace effort in Zamfara State.
Security insiders told counter-insurgency analyst Zagazola Makama that the move resulted from ongoing talks and trust-building led by community leaders under the North West Operation Safe Corridor peace framework.
The released captives, men, women, and children, were handed over to local officials and taken for medical checks before reuniting with their families.
A negotiator involved in the talks said the release formed part of a deal with Turji’s faction to halt violence and restore calm in affected areas.
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“36 people were initially released, followed by eight others, bringing the number to 46 before the remaining captives were freed, totaling over 100,” the source explained.
The negotiator further noted that more releases could happen soon as dialogue continues between Turji’s camp and the mediators.
Officials said they are keeping tight surveillance to ensure the peace process remains genuine and to stop any armed group from using it as a cover to regroup or rearm.
