Kachalla Ummaru, described as a “notorious bandit kingpin,” has cautioned security forces against using force to tackle insecurity.
Ummaru spoke on Saturday during peace talks between bandit groups and community leaders in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina. A clip shared by Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication focused on the Lake Chad region, captured him warning that killing bandits only escalates the problem.
“If today you kill 10 bandits, tomorrow you’ll see 20… you kill 20, another 30 will rise both in our bushes and villages,” Ummaru said.
He accused the government of prioritising revenue over people’s safety. “Truth be told, the government doesn’t care about anyone, all it’s after is how to generate money. If the government cared about the people, all these things won’t be happening,” he added.
Ummaru also urged the involvement of stakeholders when bandits are apprehended or kidnappings occur. “If our boys mistakenly abduct anyone or if security operatives apprehend one of ours, stakeholders should be involved and see that the person taken is released,” he said.
He criticised local residents for collaborating with security forces, claiming their tips lead to exaggerated reports of bandit casualties. “You people are also part of the problem because you are fond of complaining to security operatives and giving them information. Even when they come to where we are, they don’t kill even a bird, but you’ll hear in the news that 10 bandits have been killed and they’ll be paid,” he said.
Addressing the divisional police officer of Danmusa LGA, Ummaru stressed the need to honour agreements. “If you want these peace talks to yield anything tangible, then every favour we seek should be considered and done for us,” he said. “Anything you request from us we see to it that it is done. It would be shameful if you come to us for something and we don’t do it for you, and the same goes for you. Let us help one another and live in peace.”
The dialogue, convened to promote peace and reconciliation in Katsina, follows renewed efforts by stakeholders to curb banditry in the state and neighbouring areas. Community elders called on both bandits and security agencies to commit to genuine peace to protect residents.
Recently, bandits released 28 abductees in Faskari LGA as part of reconciliation efforts led by local authorities to reduce violent attacks.
