The Kano State Police Command has arrested three suspects in connection with the alleged purchase of a luxury vehicle using a fake bank transfer alert. The suspects were accused of buying a Mercedes-Benz worth ₦75 million without making actual payment, a crime that highlights the growing problem of electronic fraud in Nigeria.
The arrests followed intelligence-led operations carried out by the Special Intervention Squad (SIS) of the Kano State Police Command. According to police sources, the suspects were apprehended on January 28, 2026, at Kabuga Quarters in Kano after credible information was received.
Those arrested were identified as Ibrahim Tijjani, Jamilu Auwal, and Mohammed Nura Dauda. The police said the three men acted together in the alleged fraud, which involved the use of a fake bank alert to deceive a car dealer.
In a statement released on January 30, 2026, the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, said the suspects allegedly purchased a white Mercedes-Benz GLE from Gwarinpa, Abuja.
According to the statement, the vehicle was sold for ₦75 million. However, instead of making a genuine bank transfer, the suspects reportedly relied on a fake credit alert to take possession of the car.
The police said the fake alert was sent by another suspect, Ibrahim Yahaya, who is currently on the run. Efforts are ongoing to track him down and arrest him.
Confirming the development, the Commissioner of Police in Kano State, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, said the operation was carried out in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun.
According to Bakori, the directive highlights sustained intelligence-driven policing and continuous visibility patrols as part of efforts to reduce crime across the country.
“This arrest underscores the Command’s resolve to clamp down on financial crimes and other criminal activities through proactive and intelligence-led policing,” Bakori said.
He praised officers of the Special Intervention Squad for their swift response and professional conduct, noting that their actions led to the quick recovery of the vehicle.
The recovered Mercedes-Benz GLE has since been handed over to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command for further investigation. Police authorities explained that this step was necessary because the alleged transaction took place in Abuja.
The FCT Police Command is expected to work with its Kano counterpart to complete investigations and prepare the case for prosecution.
The case has drawn attention to the increasing use of fake bank alerts by fraudsters across the country. Fake alerts are often sent through messaging apps or manipulated banking platforms to trick sellers into believing payment has been made.
In recent years, many Nigerians, including car dealers, property sellers, and small business owners, have fallen victim to this type of fraud. Experts have repeatedly warned the public to always confirm payments directly with their banks before releasing goods or services.
Police authorities say fraudsters often take advantage of delays in banking systems, especially during weekends or public holidays, to carry out such crimes.
In this case, the suspects allegedly exploited trust and speed to obtain a high-value vehicle without proper payment. The police said investigations would reveal whether the suspects are part of a larger fraud network operating across states.
CP Bakori urged residents of Kano State to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies. He encouraged the public to report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or through emergency communication channels.
“We encourage residents to promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through our emergency lines,” the commissioner said.
He also reassured the public that the Kano State Police Command remains committed to protecting lives and property. According to him, the command will continue to use intelligence and community support to tackle crime.
The police said efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspect, Ibrahim Yahaya, and to identify any other persons connected to the crime.
The Kano State Police Command has in recent months intensified its fight against various forms of crime, including robbery, drug-related offences, and cyber fraud. The Special Intervention Squad has played a major role in these efforts through targeted operations.
Residents of Kano have welcomed the arrest, saying it shows that intelligence-led policing can produce results when properly supported.
As investigations continue, the police have assured the public that all those involved in the alleged fraud will be brought to justice.
The command also advised Nigerians engaged in business transactions to be cautious and to always confirm payments through official banking channels before handing over valuable items.
With financial crimes becoming more sophisticated, the police say public awareness and cooperation remain critical in preventing fraud and protecting economic activities across the country.
