Police detain two alleged fraudsters who extorted individuals using the identity of the Kano First Lady
The Kano State Police Command has apprehended two suspects involved in multiple offenses, including violation of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) code, criminal conspiracy, spreading false information, injurious falsehood, and extortion.
According to SP Abdullahi Kiyawa Haruna, the command’s spokesperson, the suspects named Umar Adamu and Hussaini Musa exploited the name of Governor Abba Yusuf’s wife to extort money from individuals. They allegedly broadcasted a public announcement, falsely claiming that a well-known NGO, in collaboration with the governor’s wife, would sponsor a training program and asked the public to pay N3,000 each for registration.
The statement from the police mentioned that the Commissioner of Police had a meeting with the Kano State Tiktokers Group, emphasizing the police’s ability to detect online crimes.
The suspects, Umar Adamu and Hussaini Musa, both residents of Kano, are currently in custody at the CID, Bompai Police Command Headquarters in Kano. They were implicated in airing an unverified public announcement credited to the governor’s wife. The audio message promoted a training program in various catering skills and requested payment for forms and ID cards.
The police investigation is ongoing to determine the involvement of the conspirators, their sponsors, and the violation of the NBC code by the media house that aired the announcement without proper verification. Over fifty individuals have reportedly been extorted so far.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Usaini Gumel, urges residents to be cautious of fraudsters who exploit the media for extortion. Media houses are advised to scrutinize the authenticity of advertisements before broadcasting them.
The statement concludes by appreciating the support and cooperation of the people of Kano State and urging residents to report any suspicious activities or information to the nearest police station or through provided emergency contacts. The NPF Rescue Me Application and online media platforms are also suggested as reporting channels.