Army troops intercept suspected drug dealers in Taraba

By: Zagazola Makama

The Nigerian Army Troops at Mutum Biyu in Taraba State, in collaboration with operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), have intercepted a vehicle laden with drugs and military kits.

Zagazola Makama gathered that the operation followed credible intelligence from the NDLEA about a suspected Sienna vehicle, conveying three occupants.

On arrival at the checkpoint, the suspects attempted to evade interrogation as the driver zoomed off. Troops immediately opened fire on the vehicle’s tyres, forcing it to divert into the bush along Garba Shede road.

The occupants abandoned the vehicle and fled before troops arrived at the scene.

A search conducted on the abandoned vehicle led to the recovery of large quantities of codeine and other illicit substances. Also recovered were military kits, including two pairs of woodland camouflage uniforms, a pair of boots, an anklet, and two green berets.

The drugs and vehicle were handed over to the NDLEA, while the military kits remain in custody of the troops.

Military authorities said investigations were ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects

Army troops intercept suspected drug dealers in Taraba

Bandits kill woman, injured several others, rustle cattle in katsina community

By: Zagazola Makama

Suspected bandits have attacked Gidan Dufe village in Kankara Local Government Area (LGA) of Katsina State, killing a woman, injuring several others and rustling cattle.

Zagazola learnt that the attack, which occurred on Monday, was carried out by a group led by one Sanusi Dan Dutsinma.

The source said the group has its base in Babaro village, also in Kankara LGA.

Bandits kill woman, injured several others, rustle cattle in katsina community

Addressing Security Concerns at UMTH: Clarifying Misunderstandings

By: Lazarus Balami

The University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) has recently faced concerns regarding the allegedly restricted access of patients’ relatives to hospital wards due to security issues.

Earlier reports, including one by Zagazola Makama, have suggested that the gates at the hospital have been closed to limit entry. 

NEWSng, however, reports that this summary of the situation does not fully represent the complexities involved that informed the measures taken. 

The primary reason for these measures relates to rising security incidents within the hospital. It has been reported that thieves, posing as patients’ relatives, have managed to gain unauthorized access to the wards and steal phones and other valuables of patients and their relatives. 

These individuals have exploited the vulnerabilities in the hospital’s entry protocols to commit theft and other illegal activities. 

Such incidents have understandably raised alarm among hospital management and staff, prompting them to take action to ensure the safety of all patients and visitors.

Another source from the hospital confirmed that it was in response to these security breaches that the hospital security team took a proactive measure.

They have implemented stricter security measures, including monitoring the entrances more closely and conducting regular patrols within the hospital premises. 

The situation has improved after security personnel apprehended several suspects involved in these criminal activities. 

These individuals were handed over to the Gwange Police Station for further investigation and legal action.” The source said. 

NEWSng reports that the actions taken by the security team demonstrate the hospital’s commitment to not only providing medical care but also ensuring a safe environment for its patients and their families. 

 It is, therefore, crucial to clarify that access to wards has not been entirely closed off. The hospital continues to prioritize patient care and recognizes the importance of having family members present to support their loved ones. 

Security measures are designed not to alienate relatives but to protect them and the hospital community. Procedures may be more stringent, but they aim to safeguard both patients and visitors from potential harm.

Communication is vital in these situations. The media should seek clarity of information before reaching out to the public.

The hospital administration is also doing the necessary to ensure that information reaches the public effectively, alleviating concerns about restricted access.

Transparent communication can help foster understanding among relatives, patients, and hospital staff, thereby reinforcing trust. 

Addressing Security Concerns at UMTH: Clarifying Misunderstandings