The Katsina State Police Command has arrested a 50-year-old man, Sagir Muntari, over an alleged ritual-related offense at the General Hospital in Funtua, Katsina State. The suspect was apprehended on May 9, 2026, after hospital staff reported suspicious activity within the facility. Police confirmed the arrest following a swift response to the alert, with detectives deploying immediately to secure the premises and apprehend the suspect. The incident has raised concerns over security in public health institutions and the prevalence of ritual-related crimes in the region.
DSP Abubakar Sadiq, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, disclosed the details in a statement released to journalists on Saturday in Katsina. He explained that at approximately 4:20 p.m. on the day of the incident, a hospital staff member observed an unidentified individual moving suspiciously inside the hospital complex. The staff member promptly alerted security, triggering an immediate police response. The suspect was quickly located and taken into custody for further questioning.
During interrogation, Sagir Muntari allegedly confessed to entering the hospital with the intent to steal the womb of a newborn baby for use in spiritual and criminal rituals. The confession has sparked alarm among hospital administrators and the public, highlighting the dangers posed by such activities in sensitive environments like maternity wards. The police have not yet disclosed whether any medical staff or patients were endangered during the suspect’s presence in the hospital.
The investigation into the case is ongoing, and authorities have stated that the suspect will be formally charged in court once all evidence is gathered. The Katsina State Police Command has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward ritual-related crimes and other forms of criminal activity. They emphasized their commitment to protecting lives, especially in public institutions, and urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior.
This arrest comes amid growing concerns over ritual killings and the trafficking of body parts in Nigeria, particularly in northern states. The police have warned that such acts are not only illegal but also pose a serious threat to public safety and social harmony. They encouraged the public to cooperate with law enforcement to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As the investigation continues, the General Hospital, Funtua, has stepped up security measures to ensure the safety of patients and staff. The case has drawn attention from health officials and civil society groups, who are calling for increased surveillance and awareness in healthcare facilities. The arrest of Sagir Muntari underscores the ongoing efforts by Nigerian law enforcement to combat ritual-related crimes and safeguard vulnerable communities.
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