By Faizah Suleiman
In Kano State, phone theft has become more than a petty crime. It’s a nightmare for residents who can barely go about their day without clutching their phones nervously. From bustling markets to quiet streets, no place seems safe anymore. The once vibrant and lively atmosphere of Kano is now shadowed by fear as criminals prey on unsuspecting victims.
But why has phone theft spiralled out of control, and what can we do about it? For many residents, phone theft stories are no longer distant tales but personal experiences. Abdullahi Musa, a trader at Kurmi Market, recalls how his phone was snatched in broad daylight.
“I was talking to a customer when two men on a motorcycle came out of nowhere. Before I could react, my phone was gone, and they disappeared into the crowd,” he said.
Sadly, Abdullahi’s story isn’t unique. It’s part of an alarming trend that affects students, workers, and businesspeople alike. These criminals are smart, fast, and ruthless, and they’ve turned Kano into a hunting ground. You might wonder why this is happening so often in Kano. Well, the reasons aren’t far-fetched.
First, economic hardship has pushed many young people into crime. With unemployment rates soaring, some see phone theft as a way to survive. A recent survey showed that 78% of Kano residents feel unsafe using their phones in public. This fear isn’t paranoia. It’s a reality.
Then, there’s the issue of the thriving black market. Places like Sabon Gari are notorious for dealing in stolen phones. These criminals know they can easily sell a stolen phone, often within hours.
Losing a phone isn’t just about losing a device; it’s about losing a lifeline. For many in Kano, their phones hold contacts, bank details, business deals, and even educational materials. A lost phone means a significant setback.
“I saved for months to buy that phone,” lamented Fatima Ahmed, a university student. “When it was stolen, I didn’t just lose my device; I lost my school notes, assignments, and peace of mind.”
It’s a vicious cycle. The more phones are stolen, the more fear spreads, and the more cautious people become, yet the thieves always seem one step ahead.
To their credit, the authorities haven’t been sitting idle. The Kano State Police Command has ramped up hotspot operations, recovering hundreds of stolen phones in 2024 alone. There’s also been a push for awareness campaigns, encouraging residents to secure their phones and activate tracking features like IMEI.
But there’s a problem. Many victims feel the response isn’t fast enough, and even when thieves are caught, they often face light punishments. This lack of consequences only emboldens the criminals.
So, how do we stop this? It will take the collaboration of everyone: government, police, communities, and individuals.
- We need more community policing. Vigilante groups working with the police can monitor neighbourhoods and markets.
- Harsher penalties must be imposed on those caught stealing phones. If the punishment is severe enough, it could deter others.
- The government should clamp down on illegal sales of secondhand phones. If stolen phones can’t be sold, the incentive to steal them disappears.
- As residents, we also have a role to play. We can make a difference by avoiding phone use in crowded areas, enabling phone tracking, and reporting suspicious activity.
Phone theft in Kano is more than just an inconvenience. It’s a threat to our security and peace of mind. It’s time we took a stand. The next time you see someone holding their phone tightly, remember: it’s not just a gadget they’re protecting; it’s a part of their life. Let’s work together to make Kano safe again.
Faizah Sulaiman wrote from Kano via suleimanfaizah01@gmail.com.