The Kaduna State Police Command has apprehended a 59-year-old serial fraudster who for years allegedly impersonated high-ranking government and security officials across Nigeria to defraud unsuspecting victims.
The suspect, identified as Aminu Yarima from Bichi Local Government Area of Kano State, was arrested on July 19, 2025, at his residence in GRA Government Quarters, Keffi, Nasarawa State, following weeks of coordinated surveillance and intelligence gathering.
Parading the suspect, the spokesperson for the Kaduna Police Command, DSP Mansir Hassan, described Yarima as “a seasoned impersonator” whose criminal activities spanned multiple states and federal agencies.
According to the police, Yarima confessed during interrogation to impersonating top public figures, including serving governors of Kaduna, Nasarawa and Ondo States, the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), the Inspector-General of Police, the Force Public Relations Officer, and even the wives of prominent government officials, such as the spouse of the late Chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari.
“He exploited the identities of prominent Nigerians to gain undue advantage, deceive unsuspecting citizens and manipulate high-level connections for personal gain,” DSP Hassan said.
A search of Yarima’s residence reportedly uncovered damning evidence. Items recovered included five mobile phones, 23 SIM cards, and multiple notebooks filled with phone contacts of senior government aides, military and police chiefs, traditional rulers, and top civil servants.
“These contacts spanned the 36 states of the federation, showing the vastness of his operations,” the police said.
While commending the operatives involved in the arrest, the Commissioner of Police, CP Rabiu Muhammad, hailed the breakthrough as a major stride in the fight against impersonation and cyber-enabled fraud in Nigeria.
“This arrest sends a strong message to fraudsters and impersonators who attempt to tarnish the reputation of our public institutions. The command remains resolute in its commitment to rid our society of such criminal elements,” Muhammad stated.
The police have launched a full-scale investigation into Yarima’s network, with authorities confirming that he would be charged to court upon conclusion of the ongoing probe.
Residents have been advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious approach from individuals claiming to be top officials without verifiable identity.
PLATFORM TIMES gathered that Yarima’s activities had reportedly spanned years, with some of his victims believed to include politicians, business figures, and even traditional leaders.
The Kaduna State Command reiterated its resolve to maintain public trust and protect citizens from deceitful individuals exploiting institutional identities for selfish gains.
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