The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Anambra state command has arrested a suspect for impersonating Nigerian Navy personnel and engaging in fraudulent activities.
The suspect, Chukwugozirim Christian, 39, from Nnobi in the Idemili north local government area of Anambra state, was apprehended at Kwata Junction in Awka on Tuesday, August 8, during a routine visibility patrol by NSCDC operatives.
While his accomplices remain at large and are being pursued by security forces, the State NSCDC Commandant, Maku Olatunde, praised his team for their vigilance and professionalism in capturing the suspect.
Preliminary investigations indicate that Chukwugozirim Christian had been posing as a naval officer, deceiving innocent civilians and involved in various criminal activities.
He said: “On Tuesday, August 6th, 2024, our personnel were on patrol to enforce the directive issued by the Commandant General, Ahmed Abubakar Audi, to prevent undesirable elements and undemocratic forces from causing chaos and disrupting the peace among law-abiding residents of the state, particularly during the #EndBadGovernance Nationwide Protest.
“The suspect was observed exhibiting an unusual appearance while impersonating military personnel, and his dubious behaviour caught the attention of our operatives, who promptly pursued and apprehended him, subsequently bringing him in for questioning at our office.
“Upon questioning, the suspect alleged to be a naval rating, prompting the command to contact the Naval Base in Onitsha for verification.
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“However, the Naval authorities confirmed that he was an impersonator, with no affiliation to the Nigerian Navy.
“A search of the suspect’s residence yielded a trove of incriminating evidence, including various military gear like a walkie-talkie, a black beret and belt, a complete blue combat uniform, a lanyard, a camouflage top, a matchet, a white naval shirt, and a blue belt.”
Maku said the parade of the fake naval rating served as a testament to the relentless pursuit of NSCDC to stop those using the cover of security personnel to perpetrate criminal acts in Anambra state.
“The Corps remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the citizens of Anambra State from impostors and criminals, and we will continue to take decisive action against those who threaten the security and well-being of Anambra residents,” he stated.
The NSCDC State Commandant has instructed the Intelligence and Investigation Department to conduct a thorough investigation to identify and capture the suspect’s accomplices, who are currently at large, saying that once the investigation is complete, the suspect will be charged in court.
The Commandant assured the public that the NSCDC under his leadership will spare no effort in combating crime and criminality in the state.
He urged citizens to remain vigilant and provide timely, accurate information to aid in the arrest and prosecution of criminal elements.