The Kano State Police Command has arrested a 31-year-old man masquerading as a Police Special Constabulary and extorting unsuspicious members of the public.
SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, who disclosed this in a statement on Friday, October 18, 2024, said the suspect, Salisu Bala, confessed to being an illicit drug user.
“Reports of public outcry were received by the Kano State Police Command regarding some unscrupulous persons who were masquerading as members of the Police Special Constabulary and extorting money from members of the public, particularly in Sabon Gari, Fagge, and Koki Quarters within Kano Metropolis,” the statement read.
"On receipt of the reports, the Commissioner of Police, Kano State Command, CP Salman Dogo Garba directed the Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) of those areas to intensify efforts and ensure the arrest of these impostors.
"Consequently, on 14/10/2024 at about 08:30pm, one Salisu Bala, aged 31 years old, 'm', of Kurna Quarters, Kano was arrested by some members of Police Special Constabulary at Koki Quarters wearing a black Police Uniform with a Camouflage peak cap.
"Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect is neither a Police Officer nor a member of Police Special Constabulary but an impostor masquerading as Police Special Constabulary, extorting unsuspicious members of the public and also confessed to being an illicit drug user. Further investigation led to the recovery of four different sets of Police Uniforms in his residence.
"The Commissioner of Police assured that the Kano State Police Command will not tolerate impersonation or extortion by individuals claiming to be Police Officers or members of Police Special Constabulary and will continue to take proactive measures to safeguard the well-being of all residents in the State. Members of the public who identified this suspect or have a complaint against him should contact 07038188127.
"In case of emergencies or to report suspicious activities, the Kano State Police Command can be contacted through the following emergency contact numbers; 08032419754, 08123821575, 09029292926."