The Katsina State Police Command has uncovered an alleged diversion of nutritional supplies intended for malnourished children, leading to the arrest of a suspect found with 1,500 sachets of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF), popularly known as “Yar Kwamaso.”
The arrest was made on August 26 following intelligence received by security operatives, according to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Sadiq-Aliyu.
Sadiq-Aliyu said officers attached to the Batagarawa Police Division intercepted the suspect during a surveillance operation and recovered three sacks containing the nutritional products.
Investigations revealed that the food items were part of supplies designated for free distribution to malnourished children through public healthcare facilities across the state.
According to the police spokesperson, the suspect could not provide a lawful explanation for possessing the items and later admitted during questioning that he obtained them from another individual believed to be a staff member at a healthcare facility.
The alleged accomplice, who is currently on the run, is being sought by the police.
“The products were meant exclusively for vulnerable children receiving treatment for malnutrition and are not authorised for private sale or personal use,” Sadiq-Aliyu stated.
He explained that RUTF is a specialised therapeutic nutritional product used in the treatment of severe acute malnutrition and is distributed free of charge under the supervision of healthcare professionals.
The police said the suspect remains in custody and is assisting investigators in tracking down the fleeing clinic worker and identifying others who may be connected to the alleged diversion of humanitarian supplies.
Authorities suspect the case may be linked to a wider network involved in the unlawful movement and sale of public health commodities.
The command warned members of the public against purchasing, selling, storing or diverting RUTF and other government-provided medical supplies, stressing that anyone found engaging in such activities would face prosecution.
Sadiq-Aliyu disclosed that the Commissioner of Police in Katsina State, CP Ali Umar Fage, has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the matter and directed that all suspects connected to the case be arraigned in court once investigations are concluded.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting public health interventions and ensuring that humanitarian materials reach their intended beneficiaries.
The police also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities involving government relief materials, medical supplies or public welfare programmes to the nearest police station for immediate action.
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