The 81 Division Nigerian Army caught nine people who were pretending to be soldiers and participating in criminal activities in Lagos State.
The Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Ayeni, revealed this in a statement on Thursday.
The individuals were reportedly engaged in different crimes, such as carrying out unauthorized duties, offering illegal security services, and providing illegal escort services while wearing military uniforms.
The statement mentioned, “The impostors who were presented to the media on 13 March 2024 at Headquarters 81 Division NA, Victoria Island Lagos, were identified as 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 arrested for various offenses, including illegal duties, providing illegal security, and illegal escort services while wearing military uniforms.
“Their actions have not only put civilians at risk but also damaged the respected image of the Nigerian Army.
“Mr. Abua Jacob, a dismissed soldier, was captured on February 7, 2024, at Alaba International Market, Ojo Lagos, for impersonation.
“Mr. Solomon Abraham, Mr. Michael Omieh, Mr. Mohammed Jemilu, and Mr. Dauda Samuel, all dismissed soldiers, were also detained in separate incidents for similar offenses.
“Additionally, Miss Esther Audu and Miss Vivian Titus were arrested for impersonation during operations along various routes in Lagos.
According to the statement, the suspects will be handed over to the Nigerian Police for further investigation and prosecution in accordance with the law.
The General Officer Commanding 81 Division NA, Major General Mohammed Takuti Usman, also urged law-abiding citizens in Lagos and Ogun States to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
PUNCH reported in June 2023 that the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army presented six suspects who were impersonating military personnel in Lagos.
