The Nigerian Army Headquarters 81 Division has successfully apprehended nine individuals who have been masquerading as soldiers, disrupting peace and security in Lagos State and its environs.
Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for 81 Division Nigerian Army, announced the arrest of these impostors during a media briefing on March 13, 2024, at Headquarters 81 Division NA, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Among those identified were Mr. Abua Jacob, Mr. Solomon Abraham, Mr. Mohammed Jemilu, Mr. Michael Omieh, Mr. Dauda Samuel, Mr. Bida Musa, Miss Esther Audu, and Miss Vivian Titus.
These suspects have been detained for various offenses, including illegal duties, providing unauthorized security, and offering illegal escort services while impersonating military personnel.
Their actions not only jeopardized civilian safety but also tarnished the esteemed image of the Nigerian Army.
Mr. Abua Jacob, a dismissed soldier, was apprehended on February 7, 2024, at Alaba International Market in Ojo, Lagos, for impersonation.
Similarly, Mr. Solomon Abraham, Mr. Michael Omieh, Mr. Mohammed Jemilu, and Mr. Dauda Samuel, all dismissed soldiers, were separately arrested for similar offenses.
Additionally, Miss Esther Audu and Miss Vivian Titus were caught impersonating during operations along various routes in Lagos.
Major General Mohammed Takuti Usman, the General Officer Commanding 81 Division NA, has urged law-abiding citizens in Lagos and Ogun States to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
He reassured the public of continued efforts, in collaboration with other security agencies, to ensure that such criminal elements are denied a comfort zone within the Division’s Area of Responsibility.
The suspects will be handed over to the Nigerian Police for further investigation and prosecution in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The Nigerian Army remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of citizens within its jurisdiction and will continue to take decisive action against individuals impersonating service personnel and other criminal elements.
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