The Katsina State Police Command has arrested a 50-year-old man, Sagir Muntari, over an alleged attempted witchcraft-related offence at the General Hospital, Funtua, in Katsina State.

The command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Sadiq, disclosed this in a statement made available to journalists on Saturday in Katsina.

According to the statement, the suspect was apprehended following a report of suspicious movement within the hospital premises.

“The Katsina State Police Command, under the leadership of CP Ali Umar Fage, has arrested a suspect for attempted criminal activities linked to witchcraft and ritual practices at General Hospital, Funtua,” the statement read.

It said on May 9, 2026, at about 17:00 hours, the Chief Security Officer of the hospital reported that at about 4:20 pm, a staff member noticed an unidentified person wandering suspiciously within the premises.

“Detectives were immediately dispatched to the scene and successfully arrested the suspect, identified as Sagir Muntari, male, aged 50,” it added.

The statement further noted that during interrogation, the suspect allegedly confessed to entering the hospital with the intent to obtain the womb of a newborn baby for use in spiritual and criminal charm activities.

It added that the investigation is ongoing and that the suspect would be charged to court upon completion of the probe.

The command warned against all forms of criminal and ritual-related activities, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding lives, public institutions, and healthcare facilities.

It also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements to the nearest police station or use the command’s emergency lines, adding that further updates would be communicated in due course. (PUNCH)