On Tuesday evening, bandits stormed the General Hospital in Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State, injuring a doctor and abducting a hospital staff member.
Incident Details
The attack occurred around 7:00 p.m., with the assailants entering the hospital premises while firing sporadically, causing panic among staff and patients.
Dr. Murtala Sale Dandashire, a doctor on duty, was shot in the leg during the attack and is currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed medical facility. An unnamed hospital staff member was abducted by the bandits, who fled the scene shortly after.
Police Confirmation
The Katsina State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Sadiq, confirmed the incident during a telephone conversation on Wednesday evening. “Yes, I am aware of the attack,” he stated.
Security Response
Following the incident, security agencies have launched an investigation and are actively pursuing the assailants. Efforts are reportedly underway to rescue the abducted staff member and ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.
Concerns Over Safety in Healthcare Facilities
The attack has raised serious concerns about the safety of healthcare facilities in the region. Hospitals, meant to be sanctuaries for care and healing, are increasingly becoming targets for violence, threatening the safety of medical personnel and patients alike.
The incident underscores the urgent need for improved security measures in healthcare institutions, particularly in areas prone to such attacks. Stakeholders have called for immediate action to safeguard medical facilities and ensure the safety of both workers and patients.
Call for Government Intervention
This attack is the latest in a series of security challenges faced by communities in Katsina State. Local residents and healthcare workers are appealing to the government to intensify efforts to address insecurity and protect essential services, including healthcare, from disruption by criminal elements.
As investigations continue, the hope remains that swift and decisive action will restore safety and confidence in the region’s healthcare system.
