The Chief Judge of Katsina State, Justice Musa Abubakar Danladi, has dismissed reports of the release of 70 detained bandits in the state, describing the claims and the resulting public reaction as unfounded.

Speaking in an exclusive interview in Katsina on Thursday, Justice Danladi said no detained bandit has been freed, insisting that the reports circulating in the public space are untrue.

He reiterated that the Katsina State Government has consistently maintained its position against negotiating with bandits and has remained firm on that stance.

According to him, some local communities, acting out of desperation, independently initiated discussions with bandits without the authorisation of the state government.

He explained that the bandits reportedly demanded the release of detained persons in exchange, prompting the communities to seek government intervention, which was declined.

Justice Danladi said the state instead sought legal guidance, leading to the recommendation and establishment of a victim–offender mediation committee to ensure any engagement remains lawful and considers the interests of victims.

“As I said earlier, some communities entered agreements with bandits out of desperation. Judges are guided strictly by law; sympathy cannot replace proof,” he said.

The Chief Judge noted that during the peak of banditry, numerous suspects were arrested, with some already convicted and sentenced, while others are still facing trial.

He stressed that convicted persons cannot be released without due legal process, adding that each case category is governed by specific legal provisions.

“As I am speaking with you now, no bandit has been released; they are all undergoing legal processes, so the noise about them is unwarranted,” he said.

The development follows widespread reactions from opposition political parties, the Arewa Consultative Forum, and other stakeholders in Katsina over a reported letter from the state Ministry of Justice to the Chief Judge regarding legal procedures for detained suspects. (The Nation)