Yobe Police Warn of Criminals Posing as Hawkers, Beggars to Scout for Attacks

By Alhaji Yusuf ,Damaturu

The Yobe State Police Command has issued a public security alert, warning residents that criminal elements may be disguising themselves as petty traders and itinerant workers to survey potential targets for attacks.

According to an intelligence report released by the command, suspects are expected to blend into communities by masquerading as sellers of perfume locally known as Mai Tolare nail cutters, or hand-truck pushers.

Authorities also noted that some individuals may pose as beggars moving from house to house.

The police cautioned that while these individuals may appear harmless, their activities are likely a cover to identify vulnerable locations across residential areas, markets, places of worship, and public institutions.

"Reports also suggest that some of these individuals may use tricycles as a means of transportation and often appear neat and decently dressed in order to avoid suspicion," the statement noted.

In response to the potential threat, the command has urged citizens to remain calm but vigilant. Residents are advised to report unfamiliar persons loitering in their neighborhoods or crowded spaces to the nearest police station immediately.

The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Dungus Abdulkarim, called on community leaders, market associations, transport unions, and religious leaders to sensitize their members and cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and credible information.

"Security is everyone’s responsibility. If you see something, say something," the statement read.

The command reassured the public of its commitment to protecting lives and property in the state.