Bandits Demand N540 Million Ransom for Kidnapped Katsina Hospital Staff

Bandits who attacked the General Hospital in Kankara, Katsina State, have placed a N540 million ransom on the victims abducted during the assault. The attack, which occurred on Tuesday, left a medical doctor and another individual with gunshot injuries.

Dr. Murtala Sale Dandashire, a medical doctor at the hospital, sustained a gunshot wound during the raid, while several staff members were kidnapped. Among the abducted is Yusuf Muhammad Mairuwa, the Assistant Director of Nursing Services and head of the nursing section at the hospital.

Sources confirmed that the attackers have demanded N270 million for the release of Mairuwa. An additional N270 million ransom has been set for the other hospital staff, along with employees of a nearby fertilizer factory who were also kidnapped during the attack.

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda condemned the incident and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to securing healthcare workers. While acknowledging progress in tackling insecurity, he noted that the attack underscored the need for continued efforts to safeguard the state.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, the governor assured that new security measures would be introduced, including increased personnel at healthcare facilities. He emphasized that protecting medical professionals and residents remains a top priority.