POLICE ARREST FIVE OVER FAKE HERBAL MEDICINE, IMPERSONATION IN KANO

Police officers at the Zone One Headquarters in Kano have arrested five suspects over alleged impersonation and the production, sale and distribution of counterfeit herbal medicine products using the identity of a registered traditional medicine practitioner.

The arrest was confirmed in a statement issued by the Zone One Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Hussaini, on Friday.

According to the police, the suspects were arrested following a complaint filed on August 10, 2026, by Abdulwahab Abubakar, Chief Executive Officer of Abdulwahab Abubakar Herbal and Islamic Clinic in Bauchi.

The complainant alleged that the suspects and others at large had been using his name, business identity and lectures to market and sell counterfeit products.

He also alleged that some of the suspects collected money from members of the public in his name but failed to supply the medicines purchased, while others sold fake herbal mixtures that could pose health risks.

The arrested suspects were identified as Muhammad Usman, Husaini Kabir, Hassan Kabir, Suleiman Salihu and Nura Garba.

The police said the suspects had provided statements admitting involvement in the alleged offences, while investigations were ongoing to identify and arrest other persons connected to the activities.

The Zone One Headquarters warned members of the public to be cautious of fraudsters who use the identities and reputations of legitimate businesses to deceive unsuspecting customers.

The police urged the public to verify the authenticity of products, vendors and payment channels before making transactions, particularly on social media.

The command also warned individuals involved in similar activities to desist, stressing that anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law.