The Kano State Security Council, in a response to the rising cases of phone snatching, has declared the act as armed robbery. It has mandated that any person or group found guilty of such offense should be handled as armed robbers.
In recent weeks, Kano city has witnessed an alarming surge in phone snatching incidents. Over 90 suspects have been apprehended by the police, and there are reports of 10 people being killed by phone snatchers. Citizens have raised concerns over the recidivism of the accused, who often reappear on the streets just a few months post-incarceration, suggesting that the current theft charges and their corresponding six-month imprisonment or fines are insufficient deterrents.
According to the state’s outgoing commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Malam Muhammad Garba, the security council, led by outgoing Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has recognised the gravity of the situation and the necessity for stringent measures. The council is in agreement to establish a special squad within the security system to combat this menace along with other forms of criminality in the state.
Garba further stated that the council has taken comprehensive measures to ensure peaceful ceremonies for the swearing-in of the new governor, with warnings to potential miscreants intending to cause disruption. The statement emphasises that any destruction of properties will not be tolerated, and decisive action will be taken against such acts.
During the meeting, Governor Ganduje stressed the importance of a smooth power transition and urged for peaceful ceremonies. He also expressed his gratitude towards the security agencies for their support throughout his tenure.
According to the Penal Code used in Kano and other parts of Northern Nigeria, the punishment for armed robbery is 21 years imprisonment. In contrast, the Criminal Code employed in the southern part stipulates the death penalty.
