Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force in Bauchi State have apprehended a 34-year- old suspect in connection with a sophisticated fake alert scam that targeted a local merchant, resulting in the theft of electronic goods valued at ₦3 million. Law enforcement authorities confirmed that the principal suspect is currently in custody while a manhunt is underway for his fleeing collaborator.
What are the details of the fraudulent transaction?
According to official police reports, the incident began on October 26, 2026, when the suspects visited the complainant's business establishment located at Fire Service Junction within Bauchi. The primary suspect, identified as Alex T. Bwacha from Gombe State, allegedly acted alongside an accomplice named Bako Akin, a resident of Jos, Plateau State. Posing as legitimate buyers, the pair negotiated the purchase of multiple high-value appliances, including a 50-inch Hisense television, a 58-inch Hisense television, a 43-inch TCL television, a Hisense soundbar, two Hisense air conditioners, and an LCT home theater system.
How did law enforcement track down the suspect?
The 65-year-old victim from New GRA, Bauchi, lodged an official complaint at the 'B' Division GRA station on October 30, 2026, at approximately 1:30 p.m., after realizing he had been swindled. The suspects had transmitted a fraudulent electronic payment notification to his mobile device before making off with the merchandise. Acting on the intelligence, tactical detectives launched an immediate covert investigation that led to the capture of Bwacha and the partial recovery of the looted inventory.
Where were the remaining items recovered?
Following initial interrogations, police investigators expanded their operations across state lines to Jos, Plateau State. This follow-up raid yielded the remaining stolen electronics, ensuring a 100% recovery rate of all items carted away during the scam.
What message has the police command issued to the public?
Commending the swift professional response of the 'B' Division operatives, the Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, reiterated the command's zero- tolerance stance against financial crimes targeting business owners. Through a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Nafiu Habib, the commissioner cautioned criminal elements against exploiting digital payment channels for fraud, warning that perpetrators will face the full weight of the law.
Traders and commercial operators across the region have been strongly advised to verify direct cash credits through their banking institutions before relinquishing merchandise. The arrested suspect will be formally arraigned in court as soon as ongoing preliminary investigations are concluded.