A syndicate of suspected fraudsters who allegedly posed as spirits, popularly referred to as “Aljannu,” to deceive and extort money from unsuspecting residents, has been dismantled by the Kano State Police.

A press release by the command stated that the breakthrough followed intelligence on suspicious phone activities, stressing that

operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad arrested two suspects identified as Ahmad Ibrahim, 24, and Isma’il Muhammad, 22, both residents of Dandinshe Quarters in Dala Local Government Area.

According to the police, “The suspects confessed during interrogation to using multiple GSM lines and voice modulation techniques to disguise themselves as spirits while calling victims.”

The suspects reportedly instructed victims to recite incantations and issued threats of misfortune if their demands were not met. Investigation revealed that the suspects claimed they have defrauded more than 500 victims using the said method.

It added that a total of 28 SIM cards allegedly used in carrying out the fraudulent activities were recovered from them.

Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, the Kano State Commissioner of Police, hailed the efforts of the operatives for their swift response and technical expertise, noting that criminals are increasingly adopting deceptive tactics that exploit people’s beliefs and fears.

He advised residents to remain vigilant against unsolicited calls involving spiritual claims or threats, saying that no legitimate spiritual or religious authority would demand money through phone calls.

The police added that investigations are ongoing, with efforts underway to apprehend other members of the syndicate still at large. It urged members of the public to report suspicious activities promptly and reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state.