The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Bauchi State has arrested a 30-year-old man, Hanif Muhammad Umar, for allegedly using a fake bank transfer alert to obtain a vehicle valued at N7million.
Officials of the corps paraded the suspect and the recovered car before journalists at the command headquarters over the weekend.
The command’s public relations officer, Saminu Yusuf, said the arrest followed a complaint filed by the vehicle owner, who alleged that the suspect used a fabricated bank alert to complete payment for the car.
Yusuf explained that Umar was apprehended on February 22, 2026, in Misau Local Government Area of Bauchi State after security operatives launched an investigation into the report.
He added that the suspect would be charged with offences related to cybercrime and breach of trust once investigations are concluded.
The NSCDC spokesman warned youths against engaging in internet-related fraud and other criminal activities, noting that offenders would be dealt with in accordance with the law.
He also urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious financial transactions or activities within their communities to security agencies.
The command reiterated its determination to combat cyber-enabled fraud and protect citizens from financial scams.
Speaking with journalists, the suspect said he studied Computer Science and claimed that knowledge gained from a cybersecurity course enabled him to generate the fake transaction alert.
He further alleged that his plan was to sell the vehicle and later return the money to the owner, an explanation security officials dismissed as an attempt to justify the act.
Umar, however, appealed to the victim for forgiveness, promising not to engage in such conduct again.
