By Zubairu Idris
The Police operatives attached to Zone 1 headquarters, Kano, have detained five suspects over alleged impersonation, production, sale and distribution of counterfeit herbal medicines.
The Zonal Police Public Relations, DSP Abdullahi Hussaini, made this known in a statement on Friday in Kano.
Hussaini said the suspects were allegedly using the name of a registered traditional medicine practitioner to operate.
He said they were arrested following a complaint received on Aug. 10, from Dr Abdulwahab Goni Bauchi, the Chief Executive Officer of Dr Abdulwahab Abubakar Herbal and Islamic Clinic, Bauchi.
The complainant alleged that the suspects and others now at large, had been using his name, business identity, and lectures to market and sell counterfeit products.
He alleged that some of them collected money from some people in his name, but failed to supply the medicines purchased, while others sold fake herbal mixtures that can cause 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,” he said.
He said the police were strongly warning members of the public to be wary of fraudsters who use the identities and reputations of legitimate businesses to deceive people.
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 warned those engaged in similar activities to desist, as anyone found wanting, would face the full weight of the law.(NAN)