The Kebbi State Police Command has arrested two men for allegedly smuggling mercury into Nigeria, impersonating a police officer, and engaging in criminal conspiracy.
Parading the suspects in Birnin Kebbi on Wednesday, the Commissioner of Police, Bello M. Sani, said the arrests were made during increased patrol and intelligence operations along the Nigeria–Benin Republic border.
One of the suspects, Yusuf M. Alhaji, from Kano State, was arrested on September 21, 2025, by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Dolekaina in Dandi Local Government Area. Yusuf was caught posing as a police officer with the fake rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), claiming to be attached to Rijiyar Zaki Division in Kano.
According to the police, Yusuf was stopped while trying to cross the Nigeria–Benin border. Upon searching him, officers discovered three metal jars of silver liquid mercury, each weighing 34.5 kilograms. The total market value of the substance is estimated at CFA 2.8 million (₦7.5 million).
Mercury is a highly restricted chemical and is often used in illegal mining and industrial operations, raising serious environmental and health concerns.
Further investigations led to the arrest of Tijjani Muhammed, who police say is the real owner and sponsor of the smuggled mercury. The mercury was traced to have been smuggled from Lomé, Togo, through the Malleville border, and brought into Nigeria illegally.
CP Sani praised the Dolekaina police team for their alertness and quick response. He emphasized that the police are committed to stopping criminal activities, especially in border communities.
“Kebbi State will not be a hiding place for criminals. We urge residents to help by giving useful and timely information to the police,” he said.
Both suspects are currently being held at the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Birnin Kebbi, while the police continue their investigation.
The CP also assured the public that the case will be fully prosecuted to serve as a warning to others involved in cross-border crimes.
