The Bauchi State Police Command has arrested a suspected cybercriminal and identity thief, Umar Yau, popularly known as “Snake,” over his alleged involvement in a string of online scams that defrauded multiple victims.
According to a statement released by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Ahmed Wakil, the 25-year-old suspect, a resident of Yelwan Makaranta in Bauchi metropolis, was apprehended following a technology-led investigation initiated after a formal complaint by one of the victims.
The case was triggered by a petition from Mrs. Fatimah Faiz Ali Bawahab, an online entrepreneur, who reported that her identity had been stolen. The suspect allegedly created a fake Facebook account using her name and photographs, operating under the username “Amizeebaby Muhd.” Through the fake profile, the suspect advertised fictitious goods and services, defrauding unsuspecting customers who believed they were dealing with Mrs. Bawahab.
Victims reportedly transferred money to various bank accounts provided by the suspect. The scam was often discovered only after the victims contacted the real Mrs. Bawahab for confirmation.
Investigations revealed that the fraudulent activities date back to March 2022, when a victim identified as Nafiu Muhd was deceived into sending money to a First Bank account bearing the name Hansatu Yau. Subsequent complaints in 2023 uncovered a recurring pattern, with several transactions linked to accounts registered under the names Hansatu Yau and Umar Yau.
The police have assured the public that the suspect will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
