In Nigeria’s northwest region, notorious bandit kingpin Kachallah Bammi Yarma has returned to Katsina State after serving a nine-year jail sentence in Niger Republic.
Yarma’s re-emergence has sparked widespread concern due to his notorious criminal past and significant influence over bandit networks in the region.
His troubles with the law began in 2015 when he was captured by security forces under the administration of former Katsina State Governor Aminu Bello Masari.
At the time, his capture was hailed as a major success in the fight against banditry, as he was caught smuggling arms with nine camels in Danmusa, Katsina.
The operation also resulted in the seizure of 1,000 livestock, crippling a significant part of the bandits’ supply chain.
His return has prompted fear among local residents due to his stronghold over bandit factions in Katsina, Zamfara, and Sokoto states.
Intelligence sources have revealed that top bandit leaders are reportedly paying tribute to him, presenting him with firearms, and further solidifying his power and influence.
With his notorious history of eliminating rival bandit leaders, such as Kachallah Kundu, Yarma’s re-emergence is likely to fuel further violence in the already unstable region.
His reputation extends across the Sahel, with reports indicating that even other terrorist factions fear his reach.
The return of Kachallah Yarma is anticipated to reignite conflicts among rival bandit groups and could escalate attacks on vulnerable rural communities.
