Suspected Phone Snatchers Maim Bauchi Varsity Student During Robbery
By Sabiu Abdullahi
A 200-level Biology Education student of Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU), Gadau, Maryam Yakeem, has been seriously injured after suspected phone snatchers attacked her in Bauchi State.
The incident took place in Gadau town, within Itas Gadau Local Government Area, but outside the university premises. The attack has sparked concern among residents, who say violent phone theft has become more common in the area.
Witnesses said the assailants, said to be four in number, confronted the student and demanded her mobile phone. During the attack, one of them allegedly used a knife to cut off two of her fingers and part of her ear before fleeing with the device.
Residents in the area expressed worry over the frequency of such incidents. They urged security agencies to increase patrols and ensure those behind the crimes are arrested.
The Bauchi State Police Command has confirmed the development. The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Nafiu Habib, said the victim suffered severe injuries. He added that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the suspects, recover the stolen phone, and bring the culprits to justice.
The student is currently receiving treatment at a health facility in Gadau. There are indications she may be transferred to the Federal Medical Centre in Azare for further care.
Meanwhile, the management of SAZU has dismissed reports suggesting that the attack occurred within the school campus.
Mallam Auwal Hassan, Public Relations Officer of the University, in a statement, said, “The unfortunate incident occurred outside the University environment, contrary to some misleading reports circulating in certain online media platforms suggesting that the attack took place within the University premises.
“The University Management wishes to categorically state that this claim is false and does not reflect the reality of the situation.
“It will be recalled that the Vice-Chancellor sometimes ago paid a courtesy visit to the State Commissioner of Police to further strengthen collaboration and enhance security support for the University community.”
According to the statement, the institution’s Chief Security Officer and Dean of Students Affairs visited the victim at the hospital, where she was reported to be in stable condition.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Fatimah Tahir, also conveyed sympathy to the student and reiterated the university’s commitment to the safety of both students and staff.
The management called for calm among the public and urged responsible reporting. It also reaffirmed its collaboration with security agencies to strengthen safety measures within and around the university community.