The Kebbi State Police Command has arrested four suspects over alleged Hajj fraud involving intending pilgrims in the state.
The command’s spokesperson, SP Bashir Usman, disclosed this in a statement, saying the suspects were arrested following complaints from victims and the Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Agency.
According to the statement, the suspects allegedly defrauded intending pilgrims and issued fake Hajj bags and fake medical records.
Police said suspicion arose after some intending pilgrims could not find their names on the list of approved pilgrims despite being in possession of Hajj materials, which investigations later revealed were fraudulently obtained.
The prime suspect, Aminu Hassan Zauro, was arrested alongside Tabiu Abubakar, Usman Attahiru, Mustapha Sani Zauro and Bello Jos, who are currently in police custody, undergoing investigation.
SP Bashir said Aminu Hassan Zauro allegedly collected N8.6 million from victims under the promise of securing two Hajj seats.
He added that the prime suspect had no affiliation with the Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Agency but allegedly collaborated with others to deceive unsuspecting intending pilgrims by issuing fake Hajj materials.
The police said efforts were ongoing to arrest other suspects still at large.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Umar M. Hadejia, advised members of the public to be cautious of Hajj fraudsters and deal only with the Pilgrims Welfare Agency or approved agents.
He also assured that those involved in the fraud would be prosecuted.
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