The Gombe State Police Command has announced the arrest of a 35-year-old man, Usman Kawu, for alleged criminal conspiracy and possession of counterfeit foreign currency. Kawu was apprehended by officers from the Lawanti Airport Division during a surveillance operation on Monday, June 30, 2025.

Kawu was found with ten suspected fake $100 bills, totaling $1,000, which is equivalent to approximately N1.5 million in Nigerian naira.

According to a statement released on Wednesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Buhari Abdullahi.

“In addition to the counterfeit notes, the suspect also had ₦10,000 in Nigerian currency, all of which were carefully hidden inside his inner shorts. The money was recovered and taken as exhibits.

“Preliminary investigations confirmed that the $1,000 found on the suspect is suspected to be counterfeit. The suspect confessed to being aware of the fake currency and alleged it was handed over to him by an accomplice whose identity is being withheld for operational reasons.

“Efforts are currently underway to arrest the said accomplice and uncover more evidence linked to the operation.” the statement read

The police boss assured the public of the command’s commitment to combating economic crimes and protecting residents from financial fraud.

“We remain vigilant in safeguarding the financial integrity of our communities and will continue to act swiftly against all forms of economic sabotage,” the statement added