Fake Customs Officer Arrested For Impersonation In Sokoto
Operatives of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone 'B' of the Nigeria Customs Service have apprehended a notorious individual for disguising as an officer of the Service to defraud unsuspecting members of the public.
The 28-year-old suspect identified as Abubakar Ibrahim, was arrested on 29 April 2024 at the Next Level hotel in Sokoto State, where he was found wearing an NCS uniform.
According to the Unit Public Relations Officer, Isah Sulaiman, the arrest followed a diligent investigation and collaboration between FOU 'B' operatives and the Nigerian Police Force, Sokoto State Command.
Sulaiman confirmed that Ibrahim have been impersonating and defrauding unsuspecting citizens under the guise of representing the NCS.
“The suspect was promptly handed over to the Customs Police Unit, Sokoto/Zamfara Command, for further investigation and subsequent legal action,” he stated.
Comptroller Ahmadu Shuaibu, the Comptroller of the Unit, expressed appreciation to the Sokoto State Command of the Nigerian Police for their cooperation and swift response in facilitating the arrest of the impersonator. Comptroller Shuaibu reiterated the commitment of his unit to combat such fraudulent activities within the service.
In light of this incident, Comptroller Shuaibu issued a cautionary advisory to the public, urging them to be vigilant against social media accounts soliciting money for recruitment or auctions purportedly on behalf of the NCS. He emphasised that the NCS does not engage in such practices and reaffirmed its determination to prosecute individuals involved in such deceitful acts.
To enhance transparency and credibility, Comptroller Shuaibu advised the public to follow only verified NCS social media accounts, such as "Nigeria Customs Service' on Facebook, '@CustomsNG' on Twitter, and other authenticated platforms, including a newly established WhatsApp Channel,” he stated.
Additionally, members of the public were encouraged to seek clarification on any NCS-related matters by visiting the nearest Public Relations Unit of any Customs Command.
The arrest of Abubakar Ibrahim was said to underscore FOU 'B' ongoing efforts to safeguard the integrity of the Nigeria Customs Service and maintain public trust in its operations.