Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital (MMSH) in Kano, one of the biggest state-owned hospitals in Nigeria, is now struggling with serious security issues.

Reports say that criminals, including phone snatchers and armed robbers, are increasing in the area, making it unsafe for hospital workers, patients, and visitors.

A social media post by a concerned citizen, Ahmed Deedat, highlights how the number of criminals keeps growing, putting many people in danger.

Recently, a midwife at the hospital was attacked by phone snatchers, who injured her and stole her phone. Similar incidents have been reported, with thieves robbing people at knifepoint.

Last year, a doctor was threatened while treating patients, and a nurse had to hide under a patient’s bed to escape attackers. These frightening cases show the rising insecurity around the hospital, and many are calling for urgent action by security agencies.

Even though the hospital management has tried to improve security inside the hospital, the surrounding area remains dangerous. Many workers feel unsafe, whether during the day or night.

A source from the hospital, who preferred to remain anonymous, confirmed that most of the phone snatching happens outside the hospital.

“In a recent attack, a hospital staff member called Dogara was injured with a machete while criminals stole his phone. Even doctors are not safe. A female doctor, Dr. Fatima, was robbed of her phone after a night shift.

“Once it gets dark, people with phones start worrying. The main goal is to get home safely,” the source said.

DAILY POST tried to contact the Kano State Police spokesperson, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, but he did not respond. In 2023, many people in Kano lost their lives to phone snatchers.

This led the state government to declare a state of emergency on phone snatching in July 2023. They set up a security committee, including the police, military, NSCDC, and vigilante groups, to fight the problem.

However, the Chairman of the Kano State Anti-Phone Snatching Committee, retired General Gambo Ahmed Mai’adua, was also unavailable for comment.

A security analyst in Kano, retired Captain Abdullahi Bakoji, gave some advice on avoiding phone snatchers. He said:

• Avoid using your phone while walking, especially at night.
• Do not enter cars that seem suspicious.
• Stay away from areas known for phone snatching.

With rising insecurity around MMSH, urgent action is needed to protect hospital workers and the public from these criminals.