A suspected car thief was apprehended within the Plateau State Specialist Hospital premises in Jos after attempting to steal a Toyota Camry belonging to a patient on Friday.

The middle-aged man, identified simply as Charles, was caught by the hospital’s security personnel after the vehicle’s owner, who was seated inside, raised an alarm when he attempted to unlock the car using a master key.

The hospital management confirmed the incident in a statement sent to The PUNCH on Saturday, commending men of the Security Unit for their vigilance and swift response which prevented the theft.

The statement, signed by the hospital’s Public Relations Officer, Mrs. Talatu Angi, said the suspect had been handed over to the police for further investigation and possible prosecution.

“The Plateau State Specialist Hospital Security Unit has once again demonstrated vigilance and professionalism in protecting lives and property within the hospital premises.

“Earlier in the morning of 7/11/25, a suspected car thief was apprehended within the hospital compound while attempting to steal a Toyota Camry parked near the Amenity Ward. The vehicle belongs to a patient who had come to see a doctor at about 7:15 a.m.

“According to eyewitnesses, the suspect attempted to unlock the vehicle using a master key, unaware that the owner was still seated inside. The alert car owner immediately apprehended the suspect and raised an alarm, prompting a swift response from the hospital’s security personnel on duty.

“Thanks to their prompt intervention, the suspect was successfully intercepted and detained. He was later handed over to the ‘A’ Division Police Station, Jos, for further investigation and possible prosecution,” the statement read in part.

The hospital management urged members of the public, staff, and visitors to remain vigilant and report any suspicious individuals or activities to the nearest security personnel, emphasizing that collective responsibility is key to ensuring a safe environment for all.

“The Plateau State Specialist Hospital’s Security Unit is working to ensure the safety of lives and property within the hospital premises,” the statement added. (The PUNCH)