The Kano State Police Command has dismantled a syndicate of suspected fraudsters who allegedly posed as spirits, popularly referred to as “Aljannu,” to deceive and extort money from unsuspecting residents.
The Command disclosed this in a press release, stating that the breakthrough followed intelligence reports on suspicious phone activities.
Operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad arrested two suspects—Ahmad Ibrahim, 24, and Isma’il Muhammad, 22—both residents of Dandinshe Quarters in Dala Local Government Area.
According to the police, the suspects confessed during interrogation to using multiple GSM lines and voice modulation techniques to disguise themselves as spirits while calling victims.
They reportedly instructed victims to recite incantations and issued threats of misfortune if their demands were not met.
Investigators revealed that the suspects claimed to have defrauded more than 500 victims using this method. A total of 28 SIM cards allegedly used in carrying out the fraudulent activities were recovered from them.
The Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, commended the operatives for their swift response and technical expertise, noting that criminals are increasingly adopting deceptive tactics that exploit people’s beliefs and fears.
He warned residents to remain vigilant against unsolicited calls involving spiritual claims or threats, stressing that no legitimate spiritual or religious authority would demand money through phone calls.
The police added that investigations are ongoing, with efforts underway to apprehend other members of the syndicate still at large.
The Command urged members of the public to report suspicious activities promptly and reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state.
