A 35-year-old man, Temigbe Adeola, has been arrested in Akure, the Ondo State capital, for allegedly impersonating a serving officer of the Nigerian Army and defrauding a family of N1.2 million, money belonging to the retirement benefits of the victim’s mother.

Adeola’s arrest followed credible intelligence that he had fraudulently obtained the funds from one Mr Temiloluwa.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Thursday in Akure by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olushola Ayanlade.

According to the police, the N1.2 million represented part of the victim’s mother’s retirement benefits, which the family had invested in property.

READ ALSO:Soldiers Kill 80 Bandits In Kebbi Border Clash

Further investigations revealed that the victim’s son had approached Adeola for assistance in retrieving the funds, believing him to be a serving military officer.

“Exploiting the trust placed in him, the suspect, along with accomplices who are currently at large, deceitfully obtained the money and converted it to their own use,” Ayanlade said.

He added that the case showcases the importance of public vigilance and highlights the proactive steps taken by the police to safeguard citizens’ hard-earned resources.

Upon interrogation, Adeola reportedly confessed to the crime and admitted that he had been dismissed from the Nigerian Army in 2023 after serving with the 82 Battalion in Enugu.

READ ALSO:Soldiers Dislodge Terrorists From Taraba Hideouts, Recover Weapons

His impersonation and involvement with other fugitives remain subjects of ongoing, professional investigation.

The police spokesperson confirmed that Adeola is currently in lawful custody and will be charged to court once investigations are concluded.

He also noted that efforts are underway to track down the remaining accomplices, reaffirming the command’s commitment to ensuring that all individuals connected to the crime are brought to justice.

“The Ondo State Police Command remains steadfast in its mandate to protect lives and property. We urge residents to stay alert and report suspicious behaviour or individuals to the nearest police station.

“Under the strategic guidance of the Inspector-General of Police, the command will continue to strengthen intelligence-driven operations and uphold the highest standards of professionalism,” Ayanlade added.

Two suspected motorcycle snatchers were reportedly killed in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, on Friday.

The incident led to the recovery of stolen properties including over 1,000 motorcycles, sewing machines, grinding machines and other household items.

The recovered items were displayed by authorities for public identification as residents whose motorcycles or belongings were previously stolen were urged to visit the venue and check for their property.

READ ALSO:Gunmen Assassinate APC Chieftain In Front Of His Family In Otukpo, Benue

Details surrounding the operation, including the security agency involved and how the suspects were apprehended, were not immediately provided.

There was also no confirmation on whether additional suspects were arrested or if investigations were ongoing.

Residents who expressed relief over the recovery of stolen goods, were also apprehensive concerning the rise in motorcycle thefts and the general security situation in Makurdi.

Spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, DSP Udeme Edet, could not be reached at the time of filling this report.

Security agencies comprising police tactical units, military components and others have launched a search for the abducted students of St. Mary Secondary School, Papiri Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State.

Terrorists had earlier invaded the school and went away with a large number of students and staff.

The Niger State Police Command, in a statement made available to DAILY POST by its spokesman, SP W. A Abiodun, said the incident occurred early hours of Friday.

READ ALSO:

He said the armed men invaded the school premises at about 2:00 am and “abducted a yet to be ascertained number of students from the hostel”

Terrorists invade Catholic School in Niger, kidnap students, staff
“However, police tactical units, military components and other security agencies have moved to the scene, combing the forests with a view to rescue the abducted students.

“In view of this, the Commissioner of Police Niger State Command CP Adamu Abdullahi Elleman reiterated the Command’s commitment to rescue the students unhurt, and appealed to members of the public to remain calm and support security operations to rescue the students,” the statement added.