Police in Kano have dismantled a counterfeit herbal medicine network, arresting five suspects for allegedly producing and selling fake products under the identity of a registered traditional medicine practitioner.
The operatives attached to Zone 1 headquarters, Kano, detained the suspects over allegations of impersonation, production, sale, and distribution of counterfeit herbal medicines, according to a statement by the Zonal Police Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Hussaini, on Friday.
The arrests followed a complaint lodged on August 10 by Dr Abdulwahab Goni Bauchi, Chief Executive Officer of Dr Abdulwahab Abubakar Herbal and Islamic Clinic, Bauchi. The complainant alleged that the suspects and others still at large had been using his name, business identity, and lectures to market and sell counterfeit products.
He further claimed that some of the suspects had collected money from individuals in his name but failed to supply the medicines purchased, while others sold fake herbal mixtures capable of causing harm to health.
“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,” Hussaini stated.
The police have strongly warned members of the public to be wary of fraudsters who exploit the identities and reputations of legitimate businesses to deceive unsuspecting victims.
The statement advised the public to always verify the authenticity of products, vendors, and payment channels before making transactions, particularly on social media. It also cautioned those engaged in similar activities to desist, as anyone found wanting would face the full weight of the law.