Five arrested in Kano over fake herbal medicine and impersonation

Authorities in Kano, Nigeria, have apprehended five individuals suspected of impersonation and operating a counterfeit herbal medicine scheme. The suspects allegedly used the identity and reputation of a registered traditional medicine practitioner to market and sell fake products.

The arrests followed a complaint filed on August 10, 2026, by Abdulwahab Abubakar, the CEO of Abdulwahab Abubakar Herbal and Islamic Clinic in Bauchi. Abubakar alleged that the suspects, along with others still at large, had been exploiting his name and business identity. He stated that some individuals paid for medicines that were never delivered, while others received fake herbal mixtures potentially harmful to health.

“

The complainant alleged that the suspects and others now at large have been using his name, business identity, and lectures to market and sell counterfeit products. He further alleged that some of them (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 can cause harm to health.

The arrested suspects, identified as Muhammad Usman, Husaini Kabir, Hassan Kabir, Suleiman Salihu, and Nura Garba, have reportedly confessed to their involvement. Police are continuing their investigation to identify and apprehend any other individuals connected to the operation. The Zone One Headquarters of the Kano Police Command confirmed the arrests and the ongoing investigation.

In response, the Zone One Headquarters issued a warning to the public, urging them to be vigilant against fraudsters who leverage the credibility of legitimate businesses. They advised consumers to thoroughly verify the authenticity of products, vendors, and payment channels, especially when engaging in online transactions. The police also cautioned those involved in similar fraudulent activities to cease their operations, emphasizing that offenders will face the full extent of the law.

“

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