Operatives of the Gombe State Police Command have arrested a 35-year-old man, Usman Kawu, for allegedly being in possession of counterfeit United States dollar notes worth $1,000.
The arrest, which occurred on June 28, was carried out by officers attached to the Lawanti Airport Division of the command. Kawu, a resident of Kuji Kwadon village in the Yamaltu-Deba Local Government Area of the state, was apprehended while attempting to circulate the suspected fake currency.
According to a statement issued by the state Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Buhari Abdullahi, the suspect was caught with 10 pieces of $100 notes, amounting to $1,000, which is equivalent to about N1.5 million in Nigerian currency.
“He was found with suspected counterfeit United States dollar bills and N10,000 in local currency. All the cash was concealed in his inner short trousers and has been recovered as exhibits,” Abdullahi stated.
During interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to the crime and claimed the fake notes were given to him by an accomplice, whose identity is currently being withheld for investigative purposes.
Abdullahi noted that efforts were underway to track down the said accomplice and recover additional exhibits linked to the crime.
The police spokesperson assured residents of the command’s commitment to protecting lives, property, and the financial integrity of the state. He warned members of the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious financial dealings to security agencies.
The case adds to growing concerns over the circulation of fake foreign currencies across Nigeria, which authorities warn could destabilize local economies and defraud unsuspecting citizens.
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