A Crackdown on Fraud
The Niger State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has made a significant breakthrough in its fight against economic crimes. Two suspects have been arrested for their involvement in the unlawful printing and sale of fake motor vehicle stickers, a scheme that defrauded unsuspecting motorists and diverted state revenue. Here’s what you need to know about the operation and the suspects.
The Arrest: How It Happened
The arrest followed an official complaint from the Niger State Internal Revenue Service Board (NGSIRSB), which alerted the NSCDC to the fraudulent activities. After months of intelligence gathering, surveillance, and tracking, the NSCDC operatives apprehended the principal suspect, Ahmad Obodo, a 39-year-old professional printer from Kwale Local Government Area in Delta State.
A second suspect, Umar Aliyu Babangida, was also arrested and is currently in NSCDC custody undergoing interrogation. Efforts are ongoing to track down a third suspect, known as Noma, who is believed to reside in the Kontagora area of the state.
The Scheme: Defrauding Motorists and the State
The suspects allegedly printed and sold fake motor vehicle stickers to unsuspecting motorists, misleading them into believing they were purchasing legitimate documents. This fraudulent activity not only exploited individuals but also diverted revenue meant for the state government, undermining economic stability.
“Obodo was arrested for misleading unsuspecting motorists and diverting state revenue for personal gain,” said ASC Ibrahim Yabagi, the NSCDC Deputy Public Relations Officer in Niger State.
NSCDC’s Commitment: Protecting Public Resources
The Niger State NSCDC, under the leadership of Commandant Abdullahi Adamu Kambra, has reiterated its commitment to ensuring law and order, protecting public resources, and curbing criminal activities.
“The NSCDC in the state remains committed to ensuring law and order, protecting public resources, and curbing criminal activities that threaten the state’s economic stability,” Yabagi stated.
What’s Next for the Suspects?
The suspects are currently in custody and undergoing interrogation. If found guilty, they could face severe penalties under Nigerian law, including fines and imprisonment. The NSCDC has also vowed to intensify efforts to apprehend the third suspect, Noma, and dismantle the entire operation.