The Jigawa State Police Command has successfully dismantled a major scam cartel operating in Birnin Kudu Local Government Area, arresting 13 suspects and recovering counterfeit currencies during a coordinated operation.

According to a statement released by the command's Deputy Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Ibrahim Sunusi Idris, the operation was conducted in response to numerous complaints from victims who had been defrauded by the syndicate.

Joint Security Operation

The raid, which began around 1:30 am, was a collaborative effort involving the Nigerian Police Force, Nigerian Army, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and local vigilante groups. The operation targeted known criminal hideouts in Kankare, Bigidan, Zurkuda, Karofi, and Daurawa areas, which were identified as centers for the fraud syndicate commonly known as '419ers' in the region.

"These fraudsters, masquerading as currency exchangers, lure unsuspecting members of the public with promises of lucrative dollar deals, only to rob them of their valuables—posing an increasing threat to lives and property in the region," ASP Idris explained in the statement.

Kingpins Among Arrested Suspects

Among the 13 suspects captured were five alleged kingpins identified as Salisu Ibrahim (aka Gwamna), Umar Dauda (aka Tontere), Abdullahi Umar (also known as Ubale Daurawa), Magaji A. Mohd (also known as Magaji Gurgu), and Abubakar Ibrahim (also called Yellow).

The police recovered several incriminating items during the operation, including bundles of counterfeit $100 bills, fake ₦1,000 notes, improvised Central Bank currency boxes, and three motorcycles suspected to have been used to transport the proceeds of their fraudulent activities.

Police Commitment to Community Safety

The Commissioner of Police of Jigawa State, CP AT Abdullahi, reiterated the Command's commitment to intelligence-based and community-supported policing. He assured the public that the suspects would face legal consequences following a thorough investigation.

"The Command also appreciates the synergy of the military, DSS, NSCDC, and vigilante operatives, as well as the cooperation of community members who continue to provide vital information that makes such success possible," the statement added.

The police have appealed to residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to help authorities identify and apprehend criminal elements across the state.