Kachalla Ummaru, a notorious bandit kingpin, has warned security agencies against relying solely on force to curb insecurity, warning that such measures only worsen the situation.
Gatekeepers News reports that speaking on Saturday during peace talks with community leaders and security representatives in Matazu LGA, Katsina state, Ummaru said violent crackdowns fuel the growth of bandit groups.
He said in a video shared by counter-insurgency outlet Zagazola Makama, “If you kill 10 bandits today, 20 will rise tomorrow. If you kill 20, 30 more will emerge, both in the bush and in the villages.”
Ummaru accused government authorities of prioritising revenue generation over citizens’ welfare and urged stakeholders to mediate whenever bandits are arrested or civilians abducted.
He also called on residents to stop giving information to security operatives, claiming it undermines peace efforts.
Addressing the divisional police officer of Danmusa LGA, the bandit leader stressed the need for mutual respect and cooperation.
He added, “If you come to us for something, we will do it. If we come to you, it would be shameful if you don’t do it for us
The meeting, convened to promote reconciliation in the state, follows renewed peace initiatives. Last Wednesday, bandits released 28 abductees in Faskari LGA as part of an ongoing dialogue led by local authorities.
