The Kano State Police Command has arrested a man impersonating a police officer in a crackdown on public extortion, authorities said on Monday.
Nasiru Shitu, a 33-year-old resident of Kofar Waika Quarters, was apprehended on Sunday at around 5 p.m. in Kofar Dawanau while dressed in what appeared to be a police uniform. The area has recently seen multiple reports of extortion by individuals posing as law enforcement officers.
A preliminary investigation confirmed that Shitu is not a police officer or a member of the Police Special Constabulary. “He was masquerading as a police officer to extort unsuspecting members of the public,” said SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, Police Public Relations Officer for Kano State.
The suspect is expected to be charged to court for prosecution, with further investigations underway to determine the scope of his activities and whether he acted with accomplices.
Kano State Police Commissioner CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori urged residents to come forward with information. “Members of the public with information or complaints about this suspect or any other similar cases should contact the Police Command through our emergency number: 07038188127,” he said.
The police command reaffirmed its commitment to public safety, stating, “We remain committed to taking proactive measures to safeguard the well-being of all residents in the state and will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that those who engage in such criminal activities are brought to justice.”