Doctor Shot and Staff Kidnapped in Kankara Hospital Attack by Gunmen

Unidentified gunmen, believed to be bandits, have attacked the General Hospital in Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State, resulting in the injury of a medical doctor and the kidnapping of five hospital staff members. The attack occurred on January 14, 2025, at approximately 8:20 PM, when the armed assailants stormed the hospital, firing sporadically with AK-47 rifles.

According to the Katsina State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Aliyu, the police responded promptly to the scene after receiving the report. The Kankara Divisional Police Headquarters deployed officers, leading to a gunfight with the attackers. While the police managed to foil the attack, two individuals were injured in the crossfire. Dr. Murtala Saleh, a 30-year-old medical doctor, sustained a gunshot wound to the right thigh, and Kamala Suleiman, a 20-year-old hospital staff member, was shot in the knee. Both victims are currently in stable condition and receiving medical attention.

In addition to the injuries, the bandits kidnapped three individuals from the hospital. The police are actively pursuing the criminals with the goal of rescuing the kidnapped victims and bringing the perpetrators to justice. DSP Aliyu confirmed that the incident is under investigation.

Katsina State Police Commissioner, Aliyu Abubakar Musa, condemned the attack on healthcare workers and facilities, emphasizing the importance of protecting medical staff and infrastructure. He has directed the deployment of additional security resources to the area to intensify the search for the gunmen and ensure the safety of local communities.