Bandits demand ₦540 Million Ransom for Abducted Katsina Hospital Staff

Bandits have demanded a ransom of ₦540 million for victims abducted during an attack on a General Hospital in Kankara Local Government Area, Katsina State.

The attack, which took place on Tuesday, left a medical doctor, Dr. Murtala Sale Dandashire, and another individual injured by gunfire. Dr. Dandashire sustained a gunshot wound during the raid, while several hospital staff members were abducted.

Among the kidnapped is Yusuf Muhammad Mairuwa, the Assistant Director of Nursing Services and head of the hospital’s nursing department.

According to reports from Daily Post, the kidnappers are demanding ₦270 million for Mairuwa’s release and an additional ₦270 million for the other abducted staff members and workers from a nearby fertilizer factory.

Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Radda condemned the attack, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to the safety of healthcare workers. In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, the governor acknowledged ongoing progress in reducing similar incidents but stressed the need for a stronger security strategy.

“We are restrategising our security approach to ensure our medical professionals can carry out their duties without fear. The safety of healthcare workers and residents remains our top priority,” Governor Radda assured.