Police foil N30 million extortion, arrest four suspects in Kebbi

Authorities in Kebbi State, Nigeria, have apprehended four individuals suspected of orchestrating an extortion scheme targeting a resident of Jega Local Government Area. The group allegedly demanded ₦30 million, threatening the victim with kidnapping if the ransom was not paid. The suspects have been identified as Muhammad Shafiu, Mansur Ibrahim, Aliyu Umar, and Muhammad Suleiman, all in their early twenties.

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Investigation revealed that the first, second, and third suspects procured a new SIM card and repeatedly called the victim.

According to Bashir Usman, the police spokesperson in Kebbi, the arrests followed a formal complaint filed by the victim, Aminu Garba. Mr. Garba reported receiving multiple anonymous phone calls containing threats. Investigations revealed that the first three suspects acquired a new SIM card to make the calls, with one suspect reportedly altering his voice to sound like a Fulani man in an attempt to instill greater fear and obscure his identity.

Further police investigation uncovered the alleged involvement of the fourth suspect, Muhammad Suleiman, who is reportedly a family friend of the victim. Suleiman is accused of supplying the victim's phone number and sensitive personal details to the extortion ring, thereby facilitating the threats and demands. The suspects were apprehended in the villages of Gumbin Kure and Gamjeji within the Maiyama Local Government Area.

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One of them disguised his voice to sound like a Fulani man in an attempt to instil fear and conceal his identity.

Following the arrests, the Kebbi State Commissioner of Police, Umar Hadejia, has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the matter. He assured the public that the suspects would face prosecution to the full extent of the law and reaffirmed the police command's dedication to protecting lives and property throughout Kebbi State. The police also urged residents to maintain security awareness and promptly report any suspicious communications or activities, providing emergency hotlines for confidential information sharing.

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The police command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Kebbi State.