Kano Police Bust ‘Fake Spirit’ Fraud Syndicate, Arrest Two for Scamming Over 500 Victims

The Kano State Police Command has dismantled a notorious fraud syndicate that allegedly posed as spirits, popularly referred to as “Aljannu,” to deceive and extort unsuspecting members of the public via phone calls.

The Command disclosed that the breakthrough followed credible intelligence received on April 10, 2026, which led operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad to arrest two suspects identified as Ahmad Ibrahim, 24, and Isma’il Muhammad, 22, both residents of Dandinshe Quarters in Dala Local Government Area.

According to police findings, the suspects confessed to using multiple GSM lines and voice modulation techniques to disguise themselves as supernatural entities.

They reportedly contacted victims, instilled fear through threats of impending misfortune, and instructed them to perform certain incantations while demanding money and other valuables.

“They admitted to defrauding over 500 innocent citizens using this deceptive method,” the statement revealed.

During the operation, security personnel recovered 28 SIM cards believed to have been used in carrying out the fraudulent activities.

The police noted that investigations are ongoing, with efforts intensified to apprehend other members of the syndicate still at large.

The Commissioner of Police in Kano State, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, commended the operatives for their professionalism and swift response, warning that criminals are increasingly adopting unconventional tactics to exploit people’s fears and beliefs for financial gain.

He urged residents to remain vigilant, particularly against unsolicited calls involving spiritual claims or threats. “No genuine spirit or religious directive will demand money over the phone or threaten harm for non-compliance,” he cautioned.

The Command further advised the public not to disclose personal or financial information to unknown callers and to promptly report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station.

Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, the police called on citizens to continue supporting law enforcement agencies with timely and credible information.