In response to the surge in phone snatching and escalating insecurity throughout Kano State, the government has mobilized 380 security marshals to tackle the issue. As Nigeria’s most densely populated state, with an estimated 16.3 million residents, concerns over the protection of citizens and their belongings have intensified.
Tragically, some incidents have resulted in fatalities. Perpetrators often employ violent tactics and make swift getaways on motorcycles. Before authorities can intervene, stolen devices are quickly disconnected and resold, complicating recovery efforts.
One notable case involved Abdullahi Umar Hafizi, a third-year Sociology student at Bayero University, Kano, who was fatally stabbed by suspected phone thieves in Dorayi Karama.
Several neighborhoods, including Sheka, Rijiyar Lemo, Medile, Yakasai, Zango, Zage, Kofar Mata, and Kurna, have been identified as hotspots for these crimes.
The Kano State Government views this challenge as one that must be addressed using local resources and strategies. Undeniably, combating this menace requires specialized expertise and intelligence capabilities equipped with advanced tools.
Despite this, the state has opted to deploy unarmed young individuals as marshals.
“These marshals have been specially trained to address the alarming rise in phone snatching across our state. They will support the efforts of the police and other security agencies,” a senior government official stated.
However, the persistent issues of youth unemployment, substance abuse, and organized crime in Kano have been acknowledged as significant contributors to the problem, yet no substantial government initiatives have been launched to tackle these root causes.
Captain Mohammed Bello, Commandant of Kano State’s Corporate Security Institute, revealed that the 380 marshals underwent a two-week training program covering physical fitness, self-defense, surveillance, identification of drug users, and arrest procedures.
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For some observers, this initiative appears to address two pressing issues simultaneously: youth unemployment and crime reduction. However, critics warn that it risks placing undue responsibility on inexperienced youths.
A Misguided Approach
Experts argue that a mere two weeks of training is insufficient for young recruits lacking prior security experience, potentially creating vulnerabilities rather than solutions.
Law enforcement officers undergo extensive, rigorous training over several months and still face challenges curbing the rising wave of attacks.
Phone thieves are often hardened and cunning criminals who resort to brutal violence. Deploying inadequately trained youths against such dangerous offenders is not only ineffective but could exacerbate the problem.
The government has indicated that these marshals will operate alongside the State Police Force and the religious civil enforcement group, Hisbah. Beyond enforcing Shari’a law, Hisbah has played roles in crime prevention, environmental cleanliness, and mediating community disputes.
Given Hisbah’s established presence, some suggest it would have been more prudent to assign them this responsibility exclusively, similar to how South Western states utilize the ‘Amotekun’ security outfit to combat crime and banditry in their regions.
Risks of Deploying Youths Against Phone Snatching
It is crucial for Kano State authorities to recognize the dangers inherent in entrusting young, inexperienced individuals with the task of combating violent phone snatchers and the potential consequences that may follow.
Like many Nigerian cities, Kano has witnessed a decline in public safety. Analysts link this trend to post-pandemic socio-economic shifts, increased circulation of illegal firearms, and a rise in hard drug consumption.
This situation reflects a broader crime wave rather than isolated phone theft incidents, demanding intervention by well-trained, professional security forces rather than hastily assembled marshals.
In response, security agencies in Kano have pledged enhanced patrols, more checkpoints, and stricter law enforcement. Ibrahim Idris Abdullahi, spokesperson for the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, vowed a zero-tolerance policy, emphasizing that “offenders will no longer benefit from out-of-court settlements.”
Following this, the State Police Command intensified Operation Kukan Kura, resulting in 200 arrests during June and July, with weapons such as machetes, firearms, and knives confiscated. Additionally, the state government deployed 1,050 security personnel to 52 identified crime hotspots.
Therefore, supplementing existing forces with marshals lacking adequate training may inadvertently fuel disorder rather than restore security.
Public reactions on social media platforms like X reveal skepticism about the marshals’ effectiveness and intentions.
One user, @Kingman4real, remarked sarcastically, “These guys might end up becoming phone snatchers themselves. Their looks don’t inspire confidence.“
Another user, @KnawtieGbedu, commented, “Unless there’s an ulterior motive behind these marshals, this initiative is a complete farce and an insult to Nigerian citizens. A national embarrassment.”
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