After being held in captivity for several weeks, the bandits released the nineteen men and women.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Bandits operating in some parts of Katsina State on Thursday released nineteen kidnapped victims following the ongoing peace accord under the Operation Safe Corridor Initiative.
Those who regained their freedom, comprised men and women from Sabuwa and Funtua Local Government Areas of the state. They were released at Innono Jigo Village in Sabuwa LGA as part of reconciliation efforts with repentant bandits.
After being held in captivity for several weeks, Safaratu Basiru, 27, Jamila Auwalu, 22, and 17 others were finally allowed to leave for their homes.
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Local officials and community leaders received the victims and took them to the Haske Private Health Centre, Sabuwa, for medical examination before reuniting them with their families.
Authorities in the area said the development was part of sustained efforts to consolidate peace and stability across the state.
Katsina is one of the states in northern Nigeria battling serious insecurity. The state has in recent times witnessed increased kidnapping, killings, cattle rustling, and other vices.
