The Kano State Police Command has dismantled a 19-year-old female-led phone theft syndicate, arresting five suspects linked to the operation.

Confirming the incident, the Command’s spokesperson, SP Abdullahi Haruna, stated that the syndicate leader, Shamsiyya Adamu, a resident of Brigade Quarters, Kano, was apprehended on December 21, 2024, following reports of stolen mobile phones in Unguwa Uku Quarters.

“In the outgone 2024, the Kano State Police Command received numerous reports from residents of Kano metropolitan city of a young lady who steals mobile phones from residential houses,” Haruna said in a Thursday statement.

“The reports indicated that the suspect was using a tricyclist and a cybercriminal to facilitate her operations.

“The State Commissioner of Police, CP Salman Dogo Garba, mobilised a special intervention squad that arrested the principal suspect on December 21, 2024.”

The syndicate, according to the statement, specialised in targeting residential houses.

“The suspects would deceive housewives, steal their mobile phones, and swindle money from their victims’ bank accounts,” Haruna added.

Those arrested include Idris Yusuf, a 23-year-old tricycle rider who transported the principal suspect during operations; Al’asan Dahiru, 24, responsible for disposing of stolen items; Abdulmajid Haruna, 27, who bought stolen phones, with six recovered from him; and Salim Auwalu, 21, who was involved in hacking victims’ bank accounts.

“Six mobile phones have so far been recovered while efforts are ongoing to recover more stolen phones,” Haruna confirmed.

The statement further revealed that thirty complainants, including 29 females and one male, have lodged complaints against Shamsiyya.

“Anyone with a complaint against the suspects can contact the investigation team via 08032617800,” the police added.