By HARUNA AHMED, Gusau-
A notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji, has reportedly released over 50 kidnapped victims in his custody in Zamfara State.
Confirming the release on Tuesday, The Co-Chairman of the state Committee on Finding Lasting Solutions to Banditry, Dr. Abdullahi Shinkafi, said the victims are about 70, adding that the notorious bandit kingpin released them ‘unconditionally’ due to a military air raid on neighboring bandit camps in Zamfara and Sokoto forests.
The military raid has led to the death of two notorious bandits while others were seriously wounded.
Sources said Mr Turji released 52 kidnap victims as part of his efforts to appease the Zamfara State government towards granting him an amnesty.
According to the police, arrangements are being made to evacuate all freed victims to the state capital, Gusau for profiling and medical treatment before they are released to their families.
It was gathered that the latest development was also made possible following a dialogue that took place between the kingpin and local authorities in Zamfara State.
Turji has been the mastermind of killings and kidnappings in Shinkafi, Sabon Birni, Isah in Zamfara and Sokoto states.
Late last year, he was alleged to have written a letter to Shinkafi Emirate Council that he was ready to embrace peace and stop banditry.
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