Katsina State police arrested two individuals carrying a huge cache of weapons and ammunition on Monday, while several local government areas continue to forge peace accords aimed at ending banditry in the region.
In a recent operation, law enforcement officials intercepted two suspected arms traffickers on the Ingawa-Karkarku village road in Katsina. The suspects, identified as Abdussalam Muhammed, 25, and Aminu Mamman, 23, both from Baure village in Safana Local Government Area, were found transporting a General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG), over a thousand rounds of AK-47 ammunition, and additional rounds for the PKT light machine gun.
The Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, disclosed in a statement that the seizure followed credible intelligence, prompting a quick and coordinated police response. The suspects were driving a blue Volkswagen Golf, registration number RSH-528 BV, where the weapons were concealed. Preliminary investigations suggest the arms were destined for criminal elements in Safana, with their origin traced to Hadejia in Jigawa State.
Currently in police custody, the suspects are under thorough examination as authorities work to map out the full network behind these illicit arms shipments. Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, praised the swift and courageous action of the officers involved.
On another front, Katsina State witnesses progress in peace efforts as more local councils formalize agreements with bandit groups under the government’s Operation Safe Corridor. Notably, Musawa Local Government recently joined others by signing a pact with armed factions, aiming to foster reconciliation, end hostilities, and secure the release of kidnapped individuals.
The peace dialogue took place on Sunday at Tashar Mai Alewa Primary School, Danmusa LGA, where government officials, community leaders, and bandit representatives met through a mediator. The agreement emphasized mutual cooperation, the safeguarding of justice, and maintaining order. Security agencies have intensified patrols to support the durability of this truce.
Previously, peace accords were also brokered in Kurfi, Jibia, Batsari, Safana, and Danmusa, with bandit leaders committing to halt violence and facilitate community rehabilitation efforts. However, despite these agreements, Katsina remains vulnerable to recurring attacks, including raids, kidnappings, and fires that have displaced countless residents and worsened food insecurity by forcing farmers off their lands.
Government and security operatives continue joint operations to curb banditry, but the adaptable nature of these criminal groups challenges sustained peace. The dialogues and ceasefire attempts under the Operation Safe Corridor are strategies put in place to restore stability and promote community security across the troubled state. Officials urge residents to support the ongoing efforts of the security agencies and remain hopeful for a peaceful future.
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