University Clarifies Phone Snatchers’ Attack On Student

A 200-level Biology Education student of Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU), Maryam Yakeem, has been reportedly attacked by suspected phone snatchers.

The incident occurred near the university’s main campus in Itas/Gadau local government area of Bauchi.

According to reports, the attackers, said to be four in number, approached the student and demanded her mobile phone.

Eyewitnesses said the situation escalated when she resisted. During the struggle, one of the suspects allegedly used a sharp object to inflict grievous injuries on her before forcefully taking the phone.

The attackers reportedly inflicted multiple cuts on her face and other parts of her body before fleeing the scene.

The victim was subsequently rushed to a medical facility in the area, where she is receiving treatment. Sources said that she might be referred to another hospital depending on her condition.

Confirming the incident, the university’s public relations officer, Auwal Hassan, stated on Saturday that the attack took place outside the university contrary to reports suggesting that it occurred within the university premises.

He described such claims as misleading and inaccurate.

According to him, the vice-chancellor, Professor Fatimah Tahir, reiterated the institution’s commitment to the safety of students and staff, noting that no cases of insecurity have been recorded within the university’s campuses due to ongoing collaboration with security agencies.

The university management also expressed concern over the spread of unverified information by some online platforms, warning that such reports could create unnecessary panic and undermine public trust.

Following the incident, the chief security officer and the dean of Students’ Affairs visited the victim at the hospital to ensure that she received proper medical care.

The university confirmed that she is currently in a stable condition.

The vice-chancellor extended sympathy to the student and urged calm among students, staff and the general public, assuring that measures were being strengthened to ensure the safety of the university community both on and off campus.