Police authorities in Kano have arrested five suspects for allegedly impersonating a registered traditional medicine practitioner and using his identity to produce, market and distribute counterfeit herbal products.
The suspects were apprehended by operatives attached to the Zone One Headquarters, Kano, following a complaint lodged by Abdulwahab Abubakar, proprietor of Abdulwahab Abubakar Herbal and Islamic Clinic in Bauchi.
The development was disclosed on Friday by the Zone One Police Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Hussaini.
According to the police, the complaint was filed on August 10, 2026, after the suspects allegedly began using Abubakar’s name, business identity and recorded lectures to promote and sell fake herbal medicines.
The complainant further alleged that some of the suspects collected payments from customers in his name but failed to deliver the products ordered, while others allegedly distributed counterfeit herbal mixtures capable of posing health risks.
The arrested suspects were identified as Muhammad Usman, Husaini Kabir, Hassan Kabir, Suleiman Salihu and Nura Garba.
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Police said the suspects had provided statements in connection with the allegations, while investigations were continuing to uncover other individuals allegedly involved in the scheme.
The Zone One Command urged members of the public to exercise caution when purchasing herbal products, particularly through social media platforms.
The command advised consumers to verify the identity of vendors, the authenticity of products and the legitimacy of payment channels before completing transactions.
Police also warned individuals involved in similar fraudulent activities to stop, stressing that anyone found culpable would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.