Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Kano State Police Command has arrested a man identified as Osama for allegedly deceiving women, engaging them in romantic relationships under false pretences, and robbing them of their valuables. The suspect, whose full name has not been disclosed, was apprehended following multiple complaints from victims who reported that a man posing as a wealthy suitor had stolen their mobile phones, bags, and other personal belongings.
According to police sources, the suspect allegedly used fake social media profiles to project an image of affluence, often posting pictures of luxury cars, expensive watches, and large sums of cash to attract his victims. Once he gained their trust, he would initiate romantic relationships, take them to hotels or his apartment, and at some point, while the women were asleep or away, he would abscond with their valuables. The women reportedly woke up to find their phones, wallets, jewelry, and even clothing missing.
During a search of the suspect’s residence in Kano, security operatives recovered more than 50 iPhones of various models, several high-end Android smartphones, laptop computers, designer handbags, and other personal effects. The total value of the recovered items is estimated at over ₦30 million. Police investigators are currently cataloguing the items and attempting to trace the owners.
The Kano State Police Public Relations Officer confirmed the arrest in a brief statement, noting that the suspect had been on the wanted list of several police divisions across the state for months. “The suspect, Osama, preyed on women seeking genuine relationships. He would promise them marriage, shower them with fake gifts, and once he had gained full access, he would steal their belongings and disappear. We urge any other victims who have not yet come forward to report to the nearest police station,” the spokesperson said.
Preliminary investigations also suggest that the suspect may have operated in other states, including Lagos, Abuja, and Kaduna, using different aliases. His phone records and bank transactions are being analysed to identify additional victims and possible accomplices. The police have also recovered several ATM cards and identity cards belonging to different individuals, raising concerns about identity theft and possible financial fraud.
One of the victims, who spoke to reporters on condition of anonymity, described how she met the suspect through a dating app. “He was very charming and convincing. He told me he was a businessman importing electronics. After three weeks of constant messaging, he invited me to Kano. He took me to a hotel and later that night, he drugged my drink. I woke up in the morning to find my phone, money, and jewelry gone. He had vanished. I never thought I would see him caught,” she said.
Another victim, a civil servant in her early 30s, said she lost two iPhones and a work laptop. “He even convinced me to transfer some money to his account for an ‘investment opportunity’. I was so embarrassed to report to the police because I felt I had been stupid. But when I saw his picture on social media being circulated by other women, I knew I had to come forward,” she added.
The police have warned the public, especially women, to be cautious when entering into relationships with individuals they meet online, particularly those who flaunt wealth excessively. “It is important to verify backgrounds and never leave valuables unattended, even with someone you think you trust,” the police spokesperson said.
The suspect is currently in custody and is expected to be charged with theft, fraud, and obtaining goods under false pretences. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has also been notified, as investigators suspect that part of the stolen funds may have been laundered through cryptocurrency and foreign bank accounts.
As investigations continue, the Kano State Police Command has set up a dedicated hotline for potential victims to come forward and identify their belongings. The case serves as a stark reminder that not every charming stranger with a fat wallet has honest intentions.
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