Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital Becomes a Hotspot for Crime
One of Kano’s largest healthcare facilities, Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital (MMSH), has become a breeding ground for crime, leaving patients, staff, and visitors in constant fear.
Recent reports indicate a surge in phone-snatching, robberies, and violent attacks around the hospital, with hoodlums operating both inside and outside the premises.
A social media post by Ahmed Deedat highlighted the growing presence of criminals, stating that the situation worsens daily, making the area unsafe for anyone carrying valuables.
Doctors and Nurses Under Attack
Healthcare workers, who should be saving lives, are now struggling to protect their own.
- A midwife was recently attacked by phone snatchers, sustaining injuries.
- A doctor was threatened while attending to patients.
- A nurse had to crawl under a patient’s bed to evade attackers.
Despite efforts by the hospital management to boost security within the premises, criminals continue to lurk around, preying on unsuspecting victims.
“Nowadays, once it starts getting dark, people become anxious if they have a phone with them. The priority is to get home safely,” a hospital insider told DAILY POST.
Rising Crime Beyond the Hospital Walls
The insecurity is not limited to hospital grounds—the entire vicinity has become a danger zone.
Last year, a female doctor, Dr. Fatima, was ambushed and robbed after a night shift. Another staff member, known as ‘Dogara,’ was macheted by thugs who stole his phone.
Despite repeated attempts to contact the Kano State Police Command, spokesperson SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa has yet to respond to inquiries.
Past Efforts to Combat Phone Snatching
Kano State has long battled the menace of phone-snatching:
- In 2023, several people lost their lives to phone thieves.
- The state government declared a state of emergency on phone-snatching in July 2023.
- A special Anti-Phone Snatching Committee was formed, involving the police, military, NSCDC, and vigilante groups.
Yet, the problem persists, with criminals operating boldly and without fear of consequences.
How to Stay Safe from Phone Snatchers
Security expert, Retired Captain Abdullahi Bakoji, shared these safety tips:
✅ Avoid using your phone while walking, especially at night.
✅ Do not enter unfamiliar vehicles or taxis.
✅ Stay away from high-risk areas known for phone-snatching.
✅ Keep valuables hidden when in public places.
With the situation worsening daily, residents and hospital workers are urging the authorities to take immediate action before more lives are put at risk.
