Five nabbed for selling fake herbs

Police officers at the Zone One Headquarters, Kano, have arrested five suspects over alleged impersonation and the production, sale and distribution of counterfeit herbal medicine products using the name of a registered traditional medicine practitioner.

The arrest of the suspects was confirmed in a statement by the Public Relations Officer of Zone One, Abdullahi Hussaini, on Friday.

According to the statement, the suspects were apprehended following a complaint received on August 10, 2026, from Abdulwahab Abubakar, Chief Executive Officer of Abdulwahab Abubakar Herbal and Islamic Clinic, Bauchi.

“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 statement said.

It listed the arrested suspects as Muhammad Usman, Husaini Kabir, Hassan Kabir, Suleiman Salihu and Nura Garba.

“The suspects have volunteered statements admitting involvement in the alleged offence, while investigation is ongoing to identify and apprehend other persons connected to the activities,” it said.

The Zone One Headquarters warned members of the public to be wary of fraudsters who use the identities and reputations of legitimate businesses to deceive people.

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

The police also warned those engaged in similar activities to desist, saying anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law.